Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

What I'm going to point out is the government can't have a policy because it's administered by the Department of Parliamentary Services, whether they have got one or not. On terms of out-of-hours access, that's true. I'm going to allow the question but I'm just pointing out what I think is an important fact. I mean, the government has some responsibilities, of course—many. But when it comes to Parliament House and access out of hours, the policy is actually the policy of each individual member and senator. Each member employs staff, they issue them with a pass and they're granted automatic access. Okay?

An honourable member interjecting—

That's right but, as a matter of course, every time someone comes into the building after working hours. As I've said, I'm just trying to make the practical point. I'm allowing the question but just pointing out the difference in administration. The Prime Minister has the call.

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