Photos by Linny Folau.

HSH Prince Tu’ipelehake delivered the King's speech in a very short closing of the Tonga’s Legislative Assembly's 2015-16 session, this morning at Parliament House in Nuku'alofa.

King Tupou VI stated that Tonga needs to be prepared for any natural disaster during the current cyclone season, in his message that took just over a minute to read.

The king noted the relief efforts extended to people on the outer islands of Vava’u and Ha’apai after Tropical Cyclone Winston. He also expressed his gratitude to the Speaker Lord Tu’ivakano and members of parliament for the work completed during this session and also to overseas countries and development partners for their assistance, and he hoped for closer working relations in the future.

Prince Tu’ipelehake was accompanied by Lord Vaea and Lord Vaha’i to deliver the message to the closing ceremony, which was attended only by MPs with a few of their spouses, parliament staff and the police band.

The Speaker said the House would open its 2016 session on 2 June.