Maiden speech

A maiden speech is the first speech given by a newly elected representative in such bodies as the House of Commons or the United States House of Representatives.

Related Topics:
House of Commons - United States House of Representatives

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Traditions surrounding maiden speeches vary from country to country. In many Westminster system governments, there is a convention that maiden speeches should be relatively uncontroversial, often consisting of a general statement of the politician's beliefs and background rather than a partisan comment on a current topic. This convention is not always followed, however: Australian politician Pauline Hanson's maiden speech is an example of one which broke the tradition. There is also a strong convention in some countries that maiden speeches should not be subjected to interruption or interjection, and should not be attacked or dismissed by subsequent speakers.

Related Topics:
Westminster system - Australian - Pauline Hanson

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In recent times First speech has come to replace Maiden speech in usage.

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