Hon members, on Tuesday 18 June 2013 I delivered a ruling on the remarks made on 12 June 2013 by the hon R B Bhoola during the debate on Vote No 1 - The Presidency, notwithstanding the hon Bhoola's absence from the House at the time. The hon member had accused the hon Kalyan of being complicit in her party's alleged racism and of not acting in a professional manner, but rather like a clown and a mascot. [Laughter.] Order!
I ruled that those remarks were out of order, and I specifically indicated in my ruling that the hon Bhoola would be asked to withdraw his remarks once he was present in the House. I am informed that hon Bhoola is indeed in the House today. [Laughter.] I therefore direct him to withdraw his remarks!
Mr Speaker, indeed, I recall calling the hon Kalyan a clown and a mascot and I withdraw that. [Laughter.] [Applause.]