Page:Vanuatu constitution.pdf/11



CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF VANUATU (3) No motion for the levying or increase of taxation or for the expenditure of public funds shall be introduced unless it is supported by the Government.

(4) Parliament shall provide for the office of Auditor-General, who shall be appointed by the Public Service Commission on its own initiative.

(5) The function of the Auditor-General shall be to audit and report to Parliament and the Government on the public accounts of Vanuatu.

(6) The Auditor-General shall not be subject to the direction or control of any other person or body in the exercise of his functions.

26. Ratification of treaties

Treaties negotiated by the Government shall be presented to Parliament for ratification when they–
 * (a) concern international organisations, peace or trade;
 * (b) commit the expenditure of public funds;
 * (c) affect the status of people;
 * (d) require amendment of the laws of the Republic of Vanuatu; or
 * (e) provide for the transfer, exchange or annexing of territory.

27. Privileges of members

(1) No member of Parliament may be arrested, detained, prosecuted or proceeded against in respect of opinions given or votes cast by him in Parliament in the exercise of his office.

(2) No member may, during a session of Parliament or of one of its committees, be arrested or prosecuted for any offence, except with the authorisation of Parliament in exceptional circumstances.

28. Life of Parliament

(1) Parliament, unless sooner dissolved under paragraph (2) or (3), shall continue for 4 years from the date of its election.

(2) Parliament may at any time decide, by resolution supported by the votes of an absolute majority of the members at a special sitting when at least three-fourths of the members are present, to dissolve Parliament. At least 1 week's notice of such a motion shall be given to the Speaker before the debate and the vote on it.

(3) The President of the Republic may, on the advice of the Council of Ministers, dissolve Parliament.

(4) General elections shall be held not earlier than 30 days and not later than 60 days after any Rh