David Hawker (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the member for Brisbane. He raises an important question. In response, I make two observations. On the first point, as I understand—and I did take advice on this—in that amendment as originally proposed, but not submitted, there were reflections which would not have permitted a direct vote and the question would have been ‘that the words stand’.

In relation to the second point about the reference to how he would refer to the government, there is a practice that members have been observing for a long time, and that practice is included in the way that matters of public importance are framed. I think all members would be aware that we are continuing to follow that practice.

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