than a decade.

Former Senate vice-president Alf Oughton stepped into the post of President which was vacated by former Senate President Albert Jackson on Wednesday after some 12 years service in the Senate.

Following prayers at the start of yesterday's session, Senators were called upon to elect a new President.

Government Senate Leader E.T. (Bob) Richards nominated Sen. Oughton, a move seconded by Independent Sen. Walwyn Hughes, and with the absence of any other nominations, Sen. Oughton was elected President of the Senate.

He thanked his colleagues for their confidence and noted that after hearing the numerous accolades for Mr. Jackson on Wednesday, he would have his hands full replacing the former President.

Sen. Oughton asked his fellow Senators to be patient with him as he settled into the role.

Sen. Richards then nominated Sen. Hughes for the post of vice-president and Community Afairs Minister Yvette Swan seconded this.

No other Senators were nominated for the post so Sen. Hughes became the new vice-president of the Senate.

Mr. Jackson was appointed to the Upper House in 1985 and became President in 1987.

He said he was ready to step down and give another Senator the chance to sit in the Upper House's hot seat.

The vacant post of an Independent Senator will be filled by former Public Service Commission chairman Jeanette Cannonier.

She will assume the post next Wednesday following her appointment by Governor Thorold Masefield.

MPs praise former President: Page 4