New Ilam MP Sarah Pallett's long journey to Parliament
A maiden speech is an MP’s first major speech in Parliament. Unlike other speeches, which are often scrutinised by party hierarchy, maiden speeches are a personal statement from the MP themselves. Pallett joked that while her career as a midwife had involved its share of unexpected arrivals, the greatest unexpected arrival of all was her arrival in Parliament. Pallett’s win in Illam was one of the most unexpected upsets on election night. JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/Stuff Pallett paid tribute to her family, including partner Andy, “my best friend, my biggest cheerleader”. “The man I love...
Source: stuff.co.nz