The Speaker of Parliament has ruled out a request for an urgent oral question from Opposition MP Lenora Qereqeretabua.

Opposition MP intended to ask the question on the shortage of metformin tablets.

Metformin tablets are used to treat type two diabetes.

Speaker of Parliament Ratu Epeli Nailatikau says the urgent question submitted by the MP is disallowed.

“I must reiterate that urgent oral questions must fully satisfy the requirements clearly provided understanding orders.”

Ratu Epelu says urgent oral questions must fully satisfy the requirement provided in the Standing Orders.

The Speaker highlighted that the Health Minister has already confirmed the shortage is a global concern and not only for Fiji.