Simpson-Miller

Edmond Campbell, News Coordinator

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller yesterday sought to close the chapter on the Trafigura controversy despite a determined Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), which is refusing to let the matterdie.

The Opposition is insisting that Mrs. Simpson Miller, who is also president of the People's National Party, provide evidence that the controversial $31 million 'donation' was returned to the Dutch oil trader.

Demanded proof

In the question-and-answer session in Parliament yesterday, Opposition Leader Bruce Golding and his colleagues again demanded proof that the Trafigura contribution had been sent back.

However, Mrs. Simpson Miller maintained that the funds were returned through the international banking system and the Dutch company had confirmed receipt of the money.

Accusing the JLP of "playing politics" with the Trafigura affair, the Prime Minister challenged her parliamentary colleagues to focus now on how both parties should deal with the issue of political donation and campaign financing.

She argued that it was time both parties agreed to disclose all political contributions.

"We inside here need to correct it collectively - that no one will be able to collect any contribution for any of the political parties without disclosure of source," she insisted.

Dr. Ken Baugh, St. Catherine West Central MP, asked Mrs. Simpson Miller whether her administration would give the nod to the Dutch government to conduct an investigation into the matter.

However, the Prime Minister said she had not received a request from the Dutch authorities to carry out a probe into the donation.

During the debate, tempers flared and members shouted insults across the divide which drew a sharp response from House Speaker Michael Peart, who threatened to suspend the sitting for 15 minutes until proper decorum was restored.

Order eventually returned and the business of the House proceeded.

edmond.campbell@gleanerjm.com