MICHAEL SUTHERLAND is putting the pomp back into parliament.

The newly appointed speaker of the Legislative Assembly will be the first to don the ceremonial gown since Liberal George Strickland 12 years ago.

The Mt Lawley Liberal MP says he wants to bring a little tradition back to the lower house.

“But don’t worry, the wigs and tights are staying in the trunk.” Mr Sutherland is the assembly’s first South African-born speaker.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK