NA Standing Committees to be strengthened: PM

ISLAMABAD:Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said Sunday that the National Assembly Standing Committees are the linchpin of the Parliamentary system which will be further strengthened to make their working more smooth and effective. The Prime Minister said this during his meeting with the Speaker, National Assembly, Ms. Fehmida Mirza at her Chamber in the National Assembly this morning.
The Prime Minister discussed various matters with her including the conduct of the budget session and legislation in the National Assembly. He expressed his satisfaction that members of the Assembly are taking keen interest in the budget discussion and are giving valuable proposals for inclusion in the finance bill.
The Prime Minister appreciated the Speaker conducting the business of the House in a smooth manner. He said that active participation of members from both sides of the House is a healthy sign that will further strengthen democratic traditions in the country.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for strengthening relations with the parliaments of other countries in order to share best practices. He said inter-parliamentary groups should be established to achieve this objective.
The Speaker apprised the Prime Minister of the accommodation problems of the MNAs and offices for the Chairpersons of Standing Committees and the efforts being made to resolve them.
The Prime Minister assured the Speaker that funds will be provided for solving the accommodation and office shortage issue of the MNAs.