The following is a letter sent to Hon. Raj Chouhan, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, and filed with the Driftwood for publication.
By ROB BOTTERELL
MLA, SAANICH NORTH AND THE ISLANDS
I am writing to formally request that you use the full authority of the chair to preserve order and decorum in the Chamber, particularly regarding the increasing use of disrespectful and offensive language and behaviour unbecoming of elected members of the Legislative Assembly.
Our Legislative Assembly is guided by a safe workplace policy and a reconciliation action plan — documents developed through your office that represent our collective commitment to fostering safety, respect and inclusion. However, these commitments are only as strong as our willingness to uphold them.
There is also the significant issue regarding the lack of a code of conduct for Members of the Legislative Assembly. British Columbia is one of two outstanding jurisdictions in Canada without one, and it is unacceptable that in 2025 we lack this fundamental framework for accountability, integrity and respectful behaviour. MLAs hold one of the highest positions of power and responsibility in the province, representing over five million British Columbians. Our words and behaviour reflect on everyone, and we need to act accordingly.
The 2024 report of the Working Group on Parliamentary Culture recommends that “the Speaker, House Leaders and all Members of the Legislative Assembly work together to: establish clear and updated guidance, with cross-party support, on unacceptable and unprofessional behaviour in the Chamber, and re-state the guidance at the beginning of every parliamentary session, with House Leaders and caucuses playing an active role in enforcing these guidelines” (recommendation 14, page 21).
An increase in racist rhetoric is occurring on your watch and allowing such comments to stand without challenge — particularly in question period and through private members’ bills — continues to fuel anti-Indigenous, xenophobic and anti-inclusive sentiment both inside and beyond this Chamber. I recognize that being in the Chamber is a place of privilege and members enjoy a certain amount of latitude and must be allowed to voice legitimate criticisms. But this is not what we are experiencing; there are limitations, and we must hold ourselves to a higher standard.
The Working Group noted that the Speaker and the House Leaders carry a heavy burden in upholding the dignity of the House. As the Speaker, you have to strike a delicate balance in supporting order and decorum while not over-regulating and undermining a member’s ability to speak freely on behalf of constituents.
I ask that in your authority, as Speaker, you take clear and immediate action to enforce Standing Orders 9 and 40(2), particularly during question period regarding the use of disrespectful and offensive language, and misconduct. I also request that you begin the process to establish a formal code of conduct for the Members of the Legislative Assembly.
This House can never become a place where hate, intolerant views, harmful beliefs or discriminatory remarks are permitted for the sake of political theatre. As the Speaker you have the authority to provide clear and consistent rulings and prioritize a responsible path forward for all members.
I am requesting a meeting to discuss your response at your earliest convenience.