Milton Dick (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

I had a feeling this subject would be raised and I want to give some direction to the House because I'm sure there will be further questions on this matter. As a first principle:

The application of the sub judice convention is subject to the discretion of the Chair at all times. The Chair should always have regard to the basic rights and interests of Members in being able to raise and discuss matters of concern in the House.

That is from page 521 of Practice. I'm going to refer to former Speaker Smith, who noted in relation to comment in proceedings about a royal commission:

… it would be a ridiculous restriction of debate if matters that have been raised in public and reported in the media could not be aired in the national parliament.

I will be listening to the minister carefully, but that is the direction I'll be following, and I refer members to Practice, pages 521 to 523. I call the minister.

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