Robert McClelland (Barton, Australian Labor Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

The Trans-Tasman Proceedings (Transitional and Consequential Provisions) Bill 2009 contains a range of transitional measures and consequential amendments to support a smooth transition to the new arrangements established by the Trans-Tasman Proceedings Bill 2009.

The bill makes clear how various aspects of the regime will apply to the conduct of trans-Tasman legal proceedings commenced before the Trans-Tasman Proceedings Bill comes into operation.

It also makes consequential amendments to existing legislation. The primary bill is designed to be a single point of reference for people on how to conduct trans-Tasman legal proceedings. This bill repeals the Evidence and Procedure (New Zealand) Act 1994 and the trans-Tasman market proceedings provisions of the Federal Court Act 1976. These provisions have been moved into the primary bill, with minor amendments.

This bill is necessary to ensure that the Trans-Tasman Proceedings Bill 2009 can operate as intended, and I commend the bill to the House.

Debate (on motion by Mrs Mirabella) adjourned.

Harry Jenkins (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Could I join with the Attorney-General in, once again, welcoming Minister Power. I am relieved that he has been able to witness the chamber in a very tranquil state because, if he got any order out of the chaos he witnessed during yesterday’s proceedings, he is a very good Minister of Justice. He is most welcome.

Honourable Members:

Honourable members—Hear, hear!