Page 1654 - Week 06 - Tuesday, 30 April 1991
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Mr Berry: I take a point of order, Mr Deputy Speaker. If you will not accept Ms Follett's point on the issue, perhaps you might accept mine. I object. I object most strongly to the Minister's imputation that I made untrue statements during the course of this debate over the hospital system. That is the imputation and that ought to be withdrawn.
MR HUMPHRIES: Mr Deputy Speaker, I did not say that Mr Berry made untrue statements. I said that there were untruths being spread in this debate.
MR DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, I think that is probably different, Mr Berry. I do not believe that Mr Humphries did say that you were making untrue statements. If he said that, I would uphold your point.
Mr Berry: Mr Deputy Speaker, the point really is that there is an imputation made; not what he said.
MR DEPUTY SPEAKER: I do not think he is making that imputation, Mr Berry. Continue, Mr Humphries.
Mr Connolly: I take a point of order.
MR DEPUTY SPEAKER: There is no point of order, Mr Connolly. I have ruled on the point. Continue, Mr Humphries.
Mr Connolly: You have not heard the point. It is a very effective Speaker who can rule in advance of the point.
MR DEPUTY SPEAKER: What is your point of order, Mr Connolly?
Mr Connolly: There seems to be a distinction being drawn between a personal attack on a member saying an untruth and a general statement that the Opposition is spreading untruths. The only speaker has been Mr Berry. Mr Humphries' statement that the Opposition was relying on untruths was a clear reflection on Mr Berry's speech. He is the only member of the Opposition who has spoken on this matter. Therefore the allegation is that Mr Berry, in his speech, made untruths, and that, I submit, should be regarded as a matter to be withdrawn.
MR DEPUTY SPEAKER: I do not accept that. I think Mr Humphries has not indicated that he is saying that Mr Berry has told any lies or is saying something that is not correct. I think he has clarified his statement, and I accept that. Continue, Mr Humphries.
MR HUMPHRIES: Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. I am sorry that there are some in that part of the house who are not prepared to accept your ruling.
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