Peter Slipper (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I understand that the Leader of the Opposition, either directly or indirectly, referred to the honourable member for Griffith as a 'psychopath'. I ask him to approach the dispatch box to clarify the situation. If he did use that term, I ask him to withdraw.

Tony Abbott (Warringah, Liberal Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I was quoting the member for Bendigo, who described the member for Griffith in those terms.

Peter Slipper (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I consider that it is, shall we say, unhelpful for that to occur, and I still consider it to be disorderly. I will, however, look at the transcript. If I am still of the opinion that the Leader of the Opposition has reflected on the honourable member for Griffith, I will, next sitting day, ask the leader to withdraw. I listened to what the leader said. I respect the fact that he was expressing what he believes to be an honest opinion. I will look at the transcript and, if necessary, I will revisit the matter.