Can there be voting by proxy in Parliament?

Dear Editor,

The health situation of Nigel Hughes is a continuous subject for discussion among lawyers. The budget debate is about to start. As a result of these two events, a thought has just struck me concerning the Parliamentary voting system.

We all know that the Opposition has a one seat majority. Now Mrs. Cathy Hughes, a faithful and loving wife is expected to be by the side of her husband.

It is doubtful whether she could take part in this budget debate. The problem is that if any member of the Opposition fails to attend Parliament, the government can get the budget passed without paying heed to the Opposition.

My question speaks to the voting system. I know that if I am a Shareholder in a Company and I cannot attend the Shareholder’s meeting, I can give an indication of the way I wish to cast my vote, which is called proxy voting. This is a legal process recognized by the Companies Act Section 141. Could the same happen in Parliament or does Parliament have special rules? I would like someone to explain.

Yours faithfully,
Jonas MF Coddett