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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1996 Week 8 Hansard (25 June) . . Page.. 2094 ..

MR KAINE (continuing):

to suspend the standing orders. The Government's legislation is before the house and it must be debated. That would allow Mr Berry and Mr Moore to do just what they are trying to stop now - to subject Ministers to examination on the legislation. To remove it from the agenda now would be irresponsible, and I do not support it.

MR OSBORNE (4.02): I have to say that I will be supporting Mr Berry in what he is trying to achieve here. What we saw today was the most disgraceful, cowardly, piece of ministerial responsibility I have ever seen.

Mr Moore: Dodgy.

MR OSBORNE: Dodgy. If Mr De Domenico claims he is not responsible for this piece of legislation, then we should debate why it is that his name is on the motion paper. It is disgraceful and very cowardly, Tony. You would not stand up and answer the questions.

Mr Stefaniak: I take a point of order, Mr Speaker. I think the term "cowardly" is highly unparliamentary.

MR SPEAKER: Mr Osborne, your reference to being cowardly was directed at Mr De Domenico as an individual. I believe that you should reconsider your comment.

MR OSBORNE: How can I reconsider it when it is the truth, Mr Speaker?

MR SPEAKER: No, Mr Osborne. Withdraw please. We have been through this before, Mr Osborne.

MR OSBORNE: I will withdraw that. I do not want to hurt poor little Mr De Domenico's feelings.

Mr De Domenico: No, you do not hurt me, mate. You hurt yourself.

MR SPEAKER: Order! Mr De Domenico, do not add to it.

MR OSBORNE: They are all cowardly. It was a cowardly display from the whole Government in protecting poor little Tony there from some harsh questions.

MR SPEAKER: That is better. You must learn the standing orders, Mr Osborne.

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