Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I have a statement I would like to make to the House regarding the setting of the clock during question time. I would just like to confirm to the House, so all members know, that the practice in respect of questions is that the clock is started after the member has directly stated to which minister their question is directed. This practice has been followed today during question time. However, yesterday it did not occur in respect of all questions, including a question from the member for Corangamite. The practice with ministers' answers is that the clock is started as soon as the minister begins speaking. This has been communicated to the officers at the table operating the clocks. I might also take the opportunity to remind all members and, indeed, ministers that these times are upper limits, not targets.