The House agreed to the proposal, which was offered last week by its leader, Dr Peter Phillips, in response to doubts raised by Opposition Leader Bruce Golding.  Infact, Golding questioned the appropriateness of politicians accepting gifts from commercial entities that are affected by decisions made in Parliament.

"It is something that I think could have benefited from consultations," Golding remarked.  "We have to advise ourselves on the matter."  Paulwell had told the House that two sources, including Cable & Wireless Jamaica, had agreed to provide the laptops and that he had accepted the offer on behalf of the parliamentarians.

But Phillips offered the compromise of the Ethics Committee ruling on the issue, and the House agreed.  Laptops were previously donated to parliamentarians by Cable & Wireless Jamaica in 2000/2001, but the House Committee turned down the approval of their use.

Paulwell also said that he has been in discussions with the acting clerk about upgrading the current website of Parliament.

"I am making available a member of my staff for the next three months to be engaged in developing a website that will truly reflect the image of a modern vibrant parliament," Paulwell said, adding that the ministry had already determined the specifications of a proper Government of Jamaica website, which will be incorporated into the website of the Parliament.

He said that it would be necessary to ensure that reports to Parliament, as well as Hansard reports, can be posted within seven days.

Paulwell also said that in terms of the provision of lap- tops, there would be a need to ensure that once members enter the chamber they can have broadband access to the internet free of cost.  He added that Cable & Wireless Jamaica has also offered, "and, I am sure the Parliament will want me to agree on their behalf," to provide a hotspot facility for the entire Parliament.

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