Page 3320 - Week 11 - Thursday, 22 September 1994
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However, in direct answer to Mr Stefaniak's question, I would like to give the reasons for wanting to bring this very important matter on for early debate. I placed my notice of motion on the notice paper because of the Government's total disregard for the well-being of the children on the north side of Canberra and because there is such overwhelming community support for a ward where children with minor illnesses - - -
Ms Follett: Madam Speaker, on a point of order: This is clearly anticipating debate. It is out of order.
MRS CARNELL: No, it seriously is not.
MADAM SPEAKER: Mrs Carnell, I am afraid, that to say that there is overwhelming support is anticipating debate. You are giving the reasons why something will happen. That is debating the point. I think you have made your point quite clear.
Mr Humphries: Madam Speaker, with great respect, this is a matter which, when Ministers are answering questions, constantly occurs and ought to be accepted when the Opposition has the rare opportunity of answering a question in this place. With great respect, Madam Speaker, it is entirely within standing orders to make that kind of statement, just as Ministers make it every day of the week.
MADAM SPEAKER: That is quite right, Mr Humphries, and I take your point of order. However, this is very unusual and very rarely done.
Mr Humphries: But within standing orders.
MADAM SPEAKER: Excuse me! It is very rarely done, and with very good reason. There are notices on the notice paper for motions to be debated. If anybody wants to debate a motion, they bring it on. You do not use question time to debate motions.
Mr Kaine: Ministers do it all the time. They make 10-minute statements.
MADAM SPEAKER: Order! Mr Kaine, I will take your little comment as well. Members ask questions but do not talk about motions that they themselves have put on the notice paper. I am just pointing out why it is such a rare and unusual thing and why most houses do not allow it.
Mr Humphries: But our standing orders do.
MADAM SPEAKER: Order! You understand very well, as you test me continually, that the standing orders are not the answer to every detail of what is done in the house, Mr Humphries. Now, Mrs Carnell - - -
Mr Kaine: When we have a specific standing order, that applies.
MADAM SPEAKER: Excuse me, Mr Kaine! I am explaining to you - - -
Mr Kaine: No, you are not; you are debating the issue.
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