Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the House) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That the House, at its rising, adjourn until 12 noon tomorrow, 17 March 2009, unless the Speaker or, in the event of the Speaker being unavailable, the Deputy Speaker, fixes an alternative day or hour of meeting, and for government business to take precedence from 12 noon until 2 p.m. on that day.

Madam Deputy Speaker, just briefly: the government has liaised with the opposition and there is an agreement that in order to facilitate extra discussion on the Social Security and Veterans’ Entitlements Amendment (Commonwealth Seniors Health Card) Bill 2009, which we are about to enter into, an extra two hours will allow for greater participation in that debate. This is legislation that does have to carry in the House of Representatives tomorrow if it is to be considered by the Senate in a timely fashion. There is an understanding that, during this period, there will not be any divisions or quorums called. I commend the motion to the House and thank the opposition for their cooperation.

Question agreed to.