Page 803 - Week 04 - Tuesday, 16 June 1992
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Tuesday, 16 June 1992
_____________________
MADAM SPEAKER (Ms McRae) took the chair at 2.30 pm and read the prayer.
UNPARLIAMENTARY LANGUAGE
Statement by Speaker
MADAM SPEAKER: Members, before we begin I will make a statement. In the course of the last Assembly sitting period I was required, on several occasions, to rule on the appropriateness or otherwise of certain expressions used in this chamber. In the course of these several rulings a measure of confusion has emerged concerning the distinction between the veracity or truthfulness of statements and their acceptability as unparliamentary language.
It is the Speaker's prerogative, in the Westminster system, to determine what is acceptable language and what is unparliamentary. In order that there be no confusion in the future, I advise the Assembly that henceforth I intend to rule as unparliamentary any statement which I deem to be so, regardless of its veracity. I draw members' attention to this so that they will understand the basis for my rulings as they apply to the use of language.
With respect to the exchange on 19 May, I accept Mrs Carnell's private advice to me that no racism was intended in her question concerning the employment of nurses at Woden Valley Hospital. I also table, for the information of members, the legal opinion I have received on the issue. I trust that this incident highlights the need for all members to be temperate in their use of language with respect to other members and the community.
PETITION
The Clerk: The following petition has been lodged for presentation:
By Mr Wood from 5,554 residents, requesting that the Assembly ban all circuses which include animal acts or animal side shows from performing in the ACT.
The terms of this petition will be recorded in Hansard and a copy referred to the appropriate Minister.
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