Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In the 25 seconds before 2 pm, I indicate that the Deputy President has referred for my consideration matters raised in points of order during a speech by Senator Roberts earlier today during the consideration of private senators' bills. I have not yet had the opportunity to review the Hansard, but I did want to address one matter relating to the withdrawal of remarks which are contrary to the standing orders. If the chair requires remarks to be withdrawn, that withdrawal must be unconditional. In withdrawing such remarks, a senator must not repeat them. This is a standard that has been consistently applied in this place for many years. By repeating remarks judged by the chair to be unparliamentarily, a senator is, in effect, disregarding the authority of the chair, contrary to the standing orders. If there are any other matters on which I need to come back to the Senate, I will do so after reviewing the Hansard.

Alex Gallacher (SA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I raise the fact that Senator Roberts is not in the chamber. I request these remarks you have put on the Hansard be referred to him in writing.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I will ensure that all senators get a copy of my remarks. It now being past 2 pm, we will move to questions without notice.