Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Troeth for the supplementary question, although it seemed to be a bit more of a speech than a question. We have advice which we rely upon that it is unconstitutional for the bill to be initiated in this way. In terms of Senator Troeth’s remark, ‘Do I think the House of Representatives is more important than the Senate?’—yes, I do. That is where government is formed, Senator Troeth, through you, Mr President. The party that wins the majority of seats in the House of Representatives forms the government. We have a very important role in the Senate and I have always respected that, but in terms of the initiation of appropriation bills the Constitution makes it clear that ought to occur in—