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

On behalf of the government and all Labor senators I congratulate Senator Parry on his election to the important role of Deputy President and Chair of Committees. I think it is a waste of a good whip, myself! But congratulations to Senator Parry. I know he will be conscientious and effective in the role and will learn the skills of Deputy President, which involve impartiality and balance—things which one does not have to display as a whip! I know Senator Parry has the capacity to do that, and I hope he does forge a strong partnership with President Hogg—though perhaps not as strong as the former President and Deputy President did; they were a very effective team, and a little too close for comfort on occasions! But we do look forward to that strong working relationship. Again, congratulations.