Watson to take Speaker role

Re-elected Albany MLA Peter Watson will become the Legislative Assembly Speaker in a Mark McGowan Labor Government.

Mr Watson’s new position was confirmed on Wednesday when Premier-elect Mr McGowan released the names of 26 members who would be awarded ministerial portfolios and other parliamentary roles.

Deputy leader Roger Cook will become Deputy Premier with South Metropolitan MLC Sue Ellery as the Leader in the Legislative Council and Mining and Pastoral Region’s Stephen Dawson as her deputy.

Ben Wyatt will be the treasurer with other ministers including Michelle Roberts, Alannah MacTiernan, Fran Logan, David Templeman, John Quigley, Mick Murray, Paul Papalia, Bill Johnston, Rita Saffioti, Peter Tinley, Simone McGurk and Dave Kelly yet to have their portfolios allocated.

Mr McGowan will announce the portfolios of each of the 17 cabinet ministers tomorrow.

Former Upper House member and recently elected Member for Morley Amber-Jade Sanderson will be given the role of Parliamentary Secretary of the Cabinet while Chris Tallentire, Alanna Clohesy, Darren West, Samantha Rowe, John Carey and Reece Whitby will all be parliamentary secretaries, otherwise known as assistant ministers.

South Metropolitan MLC Kate Doust will take on the President’s role, the Upper House equivalent to the Speaker’s job.