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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 13 Hansard (3 December) . . Page.. 4472 ..

MR OSBORNE (continuing):

Mr Speaker, there have been times in this Assembly when you have had to pull members of the crossbenches into line. There was one time when I was warned and eventually ejected. I did not particularly like it, Mr Speaker, but in hindsight I suppose I deserved it. I am sure that Mr Moore would agree that when he was ejected he deserved it. However, we have learnt and we know when not to push the boundaries. Having sat here for nearly three years and having witnessed the Labor Party, I have felt at times, especially during question time, that you have not been as harsh as you probably should have been. There have been times when there have been constant interjections from certain members over there. If I had been in your shoes, I would have perhaps acted a little more harshly.

The thing that I always find funny about the Labor Party is their hypocrisy. I think they actually believe what they are saying. I am sure they actually believe that they are being given a hard time. The only time the Labor Party talk about bias is when someone does not agree with them. The history of Labor Speakers around the country, quite frankly, is not very good. They have a reputation for being anything but independent. They have had some real shining lights in the role of Speaker, Mr Speaker! Let us name some of them. Leo McLeay - what a pillar!

I find this stance by the Labor Party rather amusing. If they have had a problem with question time, which I think this is all about, as Ms Tucker said, they should have raised it 12 months ago, 18 months ago, two years ago or 21/2 years ago; but they have chosen to raise it in the last two sitting weeks of the Assembly. I will not be supporting this motion. The Labor Party are obviously a little bit disappointed that their leader will not be here for a couple of days. Nevertheless, Mr Speaker, I think you acted quite fairly. Quite obviously, the lesson here for Mr Berry is to listen and learn. I will not be supporting the Labor Party. I find it quite amusing that we are debating this motion.

Debate interrupted.

MR SPEAKER: It being 5 o'clock, I propose the question:

That the Assembly do now adjourn.

Mr Humphries: Mr Speaker, I require - or, on reflection, I suggest - that the question be put forthwith without debate.

Question resolved in the negative.

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