Page 757 - Week 03 - Wednesday, 13 April 1994
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In almost five years of ACT self-government I have always worked to advance the interests of the people of the ACT. Of course, I have fought to implement the policies of the Australian Labor Party, and I have fought hard. In all my actions I have been careful to maintain the highest standards of honesty and integrity. I note that Mr Cornwell supported me on that score last evening, but it was not reflected in his vote. That would have been a very valuable vote had it reflected your words.
I have been proud to work with my Labor colleagues to provide responsible and, as far as can be achieved in this place, stable government in the Territory. I do not accept that I have ever deliberately or recklessly misled the Legislative Assembly. I heard Ms Szuty this morning - and I think she agrees with me too - say that she supported the motion last evening because I had not told her about the break in the link with VicTAB. That is hardly, according to Ms Szuty - - -
Mr Humphries: I raise a point of order, Madam Speaker. You have said that Mr Berry should be able to disagree with the decision of the Assembly. He is now traversing the arguments that were traversed in last night's debate. That amounts to reflecting on a decision made by the Assembly. Under that standing order, I ask that you ask Mr Berry not to do so.
MADAM SPEAKER: You may proceed, Mr Berry.
MR BERRY: I will not offend Mr Humphries any more on that score. There are a few other things that I think I can probably guarantee him that he will be offended by, but on my side of politics we will quite enjoy it. Sometimes when I have spoken the truth as I see it, my answers or statements in the Assembly have not pleased the Opposition or the Moore-Stevenson group, the so-called Independents. That is what I would expect because - - -
Mr Stevenson: I take a point of order, Madam Speaker. With the comment "so-called Independents" Mr Berry continues to reflect on the vote yesterday. We can all stand up and seek leave to speak and we can all rehash the whole thing, but I think it is important that he not reflect on the vote and not make innuendos about it.
MADAM SPEAKER: Thank you for bringing that to my attention, Mr Stevenson. Mr Berry will proceed.
MR BERRY: I was not reflecting on the vote, Madam Speaker, and I think Mr Stevenson knows it. I think that what I drew attention to was the grouping of the Moores and Stevensons of this world. I would expect anxiety about some of my comments. I am usually very careful about the way I put them together and whom I target them at. I think all of the evidence that has been presented thus far demonstrates that what I have said is true. As you know, the role of Independents throughout this country has in many places been a cause of instability and confusion. I think that will continue to be the case in the Territory. I think the Moore group demonstrated a level of decency - or indecency, if you like - we have not seen before, especially in the light of the impartial inquiry which is already under way.
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