David Hawker (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I wish to make some general remarks, for the information of members, to ensure that arrangements for the chamber galleries on budget night and budget reply night run smoothly. I ask members to ensure that their guests arrive at the galleries in a timely way for the addresses. This is particularly important on budget night, when there are a large number of guests to accommodate. Guests should arrive at the galleries about 30 minutes prior to the budget speech to ensure that they can undertake the security clearance and be seated in the galleries in a timely way.

I understand that there may be applause at the conclusion of the speeches. Even though this strictly is contrary to the standing orders, the chair would give any action of this kind some leniency. However, applause or other interventions, either from members on the floor or from visitors in the galleries, will not be tolerated. If such action occurs, on the principle that any member with the call is entitled to speak without interruption, the chair will request the member addressing the House to resume his seat until order is restored. Security staff will be directed to remove from the galleries any individuals who persist in intervening in proceedings, just as they would during normal proceedings. I trust that there will be cooperation from members and their guests in the galleries and that budget night and budget reply night will proceed smoothly.