The Leader of the House says postponing the debate on Te Pāti Māori MPs' sanctions is the right thing to do. 

Debate began today on proposed suspensions for the Te Pāti Māori MPs who did a haka during voting on the now-rejected Treaty Principles Bill. 

But 20 minutes in, the Government moved to adjourn it - to leave this week free to be all about the Budget. 

The opposition were blindsided.

Chris Bishop says he was under no obligation to tell them. 

"There'll be many a chance for people to have their say on the appropriate punishment in a couple of weeks. As it stands, the Government is in favour of the report of the Committee."

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