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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1998 Week 10 Hansard (25 November) . . Page.. 2857 ..

MR BERRY (continuing):

life of me, understand how you can properly contribute in an informed manner when there are so many controversial criticisms around in relation to this legislation, which, on the face of it, is destined to be rammed through this place, if one can take any notice of the intentions of the proposer of this legislation.

I have to say that I think Mr Osborne's behaviour in relation to abortion has been utterly disgraceful and appalling. It is the sort of stuff which makes people concerned about the ability of politicians, especially politicians who change from one particular flavour to another when it suits them. This appeals to a very small constituency, and that may well be Mr Osborne's intent; but he has a responsibility to others in his constituency who have a different view.

I respect the views of those people who are opposed to the pro-choice position. I think I understand it. I believe that, if that is their position, they should be respected for it - indeed, in some respects, honoured for it - but I do not think they should be allowed to impose it on other people. And that is where we part company. If they have a particular philosophical difference with this position, I am content with that and I would never ask them to change their minds; but I just implore them not to impose it on others. That is why I think we need to adjourn this debate. At the end of the day, if we are better informed and there is a delay where we can take a couple of deep breaths, we can think in clearer air.

I have already made comments about the relationship between the sale of ACTEW and this matter. I need not say any more about it. I think there is a connection. Many out there in the community think there is a connection and think that this ought to be delayed until the end of that debate at least, because of the way this Assembly operates and how there is a dependence on certain votes in this Assembly to get pet projects through. So I say, Mr Speaker, that all of the arguments to delay consideration of this Bill have been well made out. Although I can count, I am rather disappointed at some of the things that have been said - and not said - by people who will be voting in relation to this matter.

Question put:

That the motion (Mr Berry's) be agreed to.

The Assembly voted -

AYES, 8	 	NOES, 9

Mr Berry	Ms Carnell
Mr Corbell	Mr Cornwell
Mr Hargreaves	Mr Hird
Mr Moore	Mr Humphries
Mr Quinlan	Mr Kaine
Mr Stanhope	Mr Osborne
Ms Tucker	Mr Rugendyke
Mr Wood		Mr Smyth
		Mr Stefaniak

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