Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

I'm being very patient, and, just before I call—

Mr Joyce interjecting—

If the Deputy Prime Minister could cease interjecting, that would assist everybody. I'll just say to the Leader of the Opposition: certainly leave was given for him to move the amendments together, and I've made my arguments. I don't accept the argument that, because the member has moved them, once that has occurred the Speaker can't make a ruling on whether the amendments are in order or out of order.

An honourable member interjecting—

Everyone has had a good say, and for once you've all spoken longer than me! I don't accept that at all, and I couldn't accept that for the role of the Speaker. I could not expect that. But I will hear from the Manager of Opposition Business, and then I'll be very open with the House about what choices the House has. The Manager of Opposition Business.

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