Julia Gillard (Lalor, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Health and Manager of Opposition Business in the House) Share this | Hansard source

I move:

That so much of the standing and sessional orders be suspended as would prevent the Member for Lalor from moving: That the House notes that the Government has already restricted the rights of Members and the work of the Parliament:

(1)

by gagging debate on 14 bills in this sitting fortnight;

(2)

by destroying the Senate Committee system with its ability to investigate Government scandals like children overboard and to allow members of the public to participate in legislative processes; and

(3)

by doctoring Hansard to cover up mistakes by the Prime Minister;

and rejects this fourth heavy handed attempt described in order of the day No. 1 by the Government to restrict the rights of all Members to take part in debate on legislation and scrutinise the work of the Government.

This is an arrogant government, out of control, that now wants to stop the opposition—

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