Harry Jenkins (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

I accept the point that is being made to me but I think that, if the chamber is to modify its behaviour and the culture of the place, it has to recognise that we have to slow down some of the behaviour that is being exhibited this afternoon. I do not mind the chamber being robust; but if I were to look at the markings the Clerk takes of people I have mentioned who have interjected and have continued to interject, I would find myself in the invidious position of having to go to the extent of those aspects of the standing orders that are available to me. Whilst I am reluctant in testing the House—not because I am worried about the numbers of the House—there has to be a point in time when we decide whether we are going to slow down our behaviour. The question is that the member be suspended from the service of the House.

Question put.

The House divided. [14:57]

(The Speaker—Mr Harry Jenkins)

Question agreed to.

Order! The member for Cowper is suspended from the service of the House for 24 hours.

The member for Cowper then left the chamber.

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