Page 2835 - Week 13 - Wednesday, 22 November 1989

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Standing Committee on Conservation, Heritage and Environment for examination and report to the Assembly.

Leave not granted.

MANNER OF SPEECH IN CHAMBER AND MODES OF ADDRESS

MR SPEAKER: I would like to make a statement relating to the manner of speech being used by members in the Assembly and the forms of address used by members to other members. There is a need for the chamber to have an effective and orderly debating process and for certain standards to be maintained. It is the role of the Speaker to maintain control of the debate and, whilst allowing members their rights under the standing orders, to ensure that the dignity of the chamber is upheld.

There are two particular matters I wish to bring to the attention of members. Members are reminded of the provisions of standing order 42 which require members to direct their remarks through the Chair. Whilst in the cut and thrust of debate comments may occasionally be directed across the chamber, the proper form is that all remarks should be directed through the Chair. While a member is speaking no other member may intervene or make any move, including interjections, to interrupt a member speaking.

On the second matter, I bring to your attention the form in which members may refer to another member. This matter has been considered by the Standing Committee on Administration and Procedures. Until the Assembly otherwise directs, members should not use the member's Christian name, given name or versions thereof when referring to another member. A member may refer to a member by title, such as Minister, Chief Minister, or Leader of the Opposition, or may use the prefix Mr, Mrs or Ms. Where a member is entitled to use a substantive military, academic or professional title, this title will be used if the member so wishes.

Sitting suspended from 12.08 to 2.30 pm

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

ACT Ambulance Service

MR HUMPHRIES: Mr Speaker, my question is to the Minister for Community Services and Health. I refer to the Government's response to the report of the Estimates Committee and in particular to the announcement that a refund would be sent to all current subscribers of the ambulance scheme once the ambulance levy legislation is in place. Is it not the case that, having received a refund, many subscribers - those not in health funds - will have to


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