Page 5291 - Week 16 - Thursday, 28 November 1991

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called the "Conciliation Commissioner". That is the problem that we are dealing with. I think that the word "Discrimination" used in this context is really inappropriate. It would be far better, at the very least, to go for "Anti-Discrimination". But I think "Equal Opportunity Commissioner" is a valid name, and it is something that we ought to reconsider.

Judging from the way members opposite have spoken, I presume that they are going to use their numbers to push this through again. But perhaps, over the next few minutes, while we deal with the rest of the Bill, they may well rethink the matter. I would be delighted if they revisited these few parts of the Bill. Perhaps we can reconsider the matter in a conciliatory way. Perhaps "Commissioner for Conciliation" is yet another compromise that would fit the intent of the Bill far better. I throw that in as a compromise.

DR KINLOCH (5.27): Madam Temporary Deputy Speaker, may I speak very briefly. I really want to be helpful. The other day, you will recall, when this came up, I left the chamber. I did not want to be involved in a word game. I know that there are several meanings to the word "discrimination". I only reflect on them; I am not putting a point of view. I like what Mr Moore is saying. I wish that we could come up with a gentle, careful, positive term. I have to say that the word "discrimination" is ambiguous.

Question put:

That the amendment (Mr Humphries') be agreed to.

The Assembly voted -

AYES, 10  NOES, 7 

Mr Collaery Mr Berry
Mr Duby Mr Connolly
Mr Humphries Ms Follett
Mr Jensen Mrs Grassby
Mr Kaine Mr Moore
Dr Kinloch Mrs Nolan
Ms Maher Mr Wood
Mr Prowse
Mr Stefaniak
Mr Stevenson

Question so resolved in the affirmative.

Amendment (Mr Stevenson's) negatived.

Clause, as amended, agreed to.


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