Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the Manager of Opposition Business. For the benefit of all members, I will explain why I won't grant indulgence on this occasion. Indulgence can be granted to members for personal reasons, but, when it comes to these sorts of matters, the practice is very, very clear that the indulgence is granted following a similar statement by the Prime Minister.

Government members interjecting—

Perhaps members on my right could cease interjecting; I haven't finished yet. In fact, page 500 of the Practice makes this very clear when it says, when the Prime Minister makes a statement by indulgence on an issue, the Leader of the Opposition is commonly also granted indulgence to speak. Members will know that's been the practice in this House. I think that, if we depart from it, it will mean that there will be endless speeches on subjects. So, really, when it comes to these sorts of serious matters, the Leader of the Opposition will always be granted indulgence following any statement by the Prime Minister.

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