Richard Harrison (politician)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Sir John Richard Harrison ED (1921 - 2003) was a New Zealand politician. After serving in a number of capacities within the National Party, he served as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 1978 to 1984.

Harrison was born in Hastings, New Zealand, on May 23, 1921. He was educated at Wanganui Collegiate School and Canterbury University. During World War II, Harrison served in the army, and saw active service in Italy. He remained in the army for several years after the war. After leaving the military, he established himself as a farmer, although remained active as an army reservist. He served as commander of the reservist Hawke's Bay Regiment from 1956 to 1957.

In the 1963 elections, Harrison stood for Parliament in the electorate of Takapau, and was successful. He served as a National Party backbencher for six years. After the 1969 elections, he was made Junior Whip, and was also Chairman of Committees. In 1978, he was elected Speaker after the death of Roy Jack. His Speakership ended at the 1984 election, which National lost.

Harrison received a knighthood in 1980, two years after becoming speaker. He died in 2003.