By Mary Lyn Fonua

Tonga's Prime Minister doesn't think that a group of 10 Nobles and People's Representatives will win a Motion for a Vote of No Confidence in the PM and Cabinet, when it goes through the House next week.

Hon. 'Akilisi Pohiva commented to Matangi Tonga following a function at Tungi Colonnade in Nuku'alofa where he launched the Tonga Development Bank's new money remittance service, 'Ave Pa'anga Pau this afternoon.

The Prime Minister who was not in the House yesterday when the Motion was distributed by the Speaker, said that he had seen the Motion, which he believed was supported by "... seven nobles plus three Representatives of the People."

He did not want to say who was leading the Motion. "I don't know, it could be one of the nobles," Hon. Pohiva said.

When asked if he thought the group would win the Motion against him, the Prime Minister who typically keeps a straight face in public, shrugged and grinned broadly, saying "No, I don't think so!"

He was not disappointed to see the motion. "They have a constitutional right to do it."

Hon. Pohiva said the Motion will be read in Parliament on Monday, "and then I hope I can give you my response."

Nine Nobles Representatives and 17 People's Representatives make up Tonga's 26 member Parliament.