Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the Manager of Opposition Business. I will conclude by saying, very briefly, that the draft code of practice has been in contemplation between the houses for some time. The resolutions here, and there's been one in the Senate, are obviously important but, notwithstanding that, it's imperative that a code governing the management of EACS be agreed as quickly as possible. Members have agreed to enable this to be rolled out, trusting me with its administration. But, even so, it's not sustainable in the long term to not have a code. Without one, those with the responsibility of managing the system and the data collected by it really don't have a framework in which to make decisions. I stress the importance of the code. I am very hopeful we'll have a code within a few months, but I just give members the assurance, as Speaker, that my role is to act on your behalf. I do that by liaising with the Leader of the House and the Manager of Opposition Business. If, for some reason, there were a delay in that code, my intention would be for the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Appropriations and Administration, as the oversight committee, to work with me, the Manager of Opposition Business and the Leader of the House for a code as it applies to you as members. Without further ado, I put the motion in my name.

Question agreed to.

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