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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2000 Week 4 Hansard (30 March) . . Page.. 1136 ..
MR SPEAKER: I wish to make a brief statement to the Assembly on a matter of some importance. This morning my attention was drawn to a media statement headed "Is Liberal Speaker Playing to Favourites". The statement, apparently issued by a member of the Assembly, contained words critical of my performance and conduct and, in effect, questioned my impartiality in the performance of my duties as Speaker.
Reflections on the character of the Speaker made inside or outside the chamber or accusations of partiality in the discharge of the Speaker's duties have been treated as breaches of privilege or contempt. I draw members' attention to pages 207 to 210 of House of Representatives Practice, where relevant precedents in the House of Representatives are discussed.
It is not that the Speaker's conduct of his or her duties cannot be criticised or challenged. However, the proper way to do so under our standing orders is by way of a substantive motion in the Assembly. I do not propose to take this matter any further, except to remind all members that such comments do reflect badly on the Speakership and therefore on the Assembly.
I conclude by reminding members of the words of Speaker McRae, my predecessor, in this chamber on 23 May 1993. On that occasion, Speaker McRae reminded members that to go to the media and criticise the actions of the Chair did nothing for the standing of the Assembly and tended to lower it in public esteem. I ask members to note those words.
The following paper was presented by Mr Speaker:
Study trip - Report by Mr Wood, MLA - Adelaide and South Australia, 16 and 17 March 2000.
The following papers were presented by Ms Carnell:
Part-time holders of public offices (Community Crime Prevention Committee) - Determination No. 54, dated 3 March 2000
Members of the Legislative Assembly for the Australian Capital Territory (Travel Entitlement for Members' Spouse) - Determination No. 55, dated 3 March 2000
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