Alan Ferguson (SA, Deputy-President) Share this | Hansard source

Mr President, I rise on a point of order. For the past two mornings, at the commencement of our proceedings you have stood to make a statement in this chamber regarding a matter of privilege. I noticed that yesterday, while you were on your feet, a government minister walked over, talked to a colleague and walked out the door. Another senator walked up to the Clerk, asked questions and returned to their seat. If people read standing orders closely, they will read that while you are on your feet you should be heard in silence and that senators should resume their seats. I think senators are getting rather lax when it comes to showing courtesy to the President when he is making a statement to the chamber.