House debates

Thursday, 23 June 2011

Business

Days and Hours of Meeting

3:53 pm

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

I indicated to the House earlier today that I would inform the House at this time of where things are at. In spite of my entreaties and, I know, the entreaties of some in the opposition, the Senate chose to deal with private members' business today and still has not commenced any discussion on the budget. It is the intention of the government at this stage to work through until approximately 6.15 to 6.30 and to suspend the sitting until the ringing of the bells at that time. People will be aware that there is an important occasion this evening which will be attended by the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and others.

Opposition Members:

Opposition members interjecting

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

It is the farewell for Angus Houston, which I would have thought was a bit beyond that. We will suspend sittings until the ringing of the bells.