Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . .

Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2003 Week 14 Hansard (10 December) . . Page.. 5203 ..

MRS BURKE (continuing):

Health and fitness is a crucial aspect of life of all of us today and it is a fact that obesity levels are rising sharply. It is reassuring to note that the ACT does somewhat better in relation to the rest of Australia. We fare pretty well, but we can do better. It is therefore extremely important that we continue to support to the fullest events such as this one and I look forward to a bigger and better event next year.

Legislative Assembly

MR SMYTH (Leader of the Opposition) (11.24): Mr Speaker, I rise to talk about tradition and history and the way that political parties view the Assembly. I have noticed a disturbing trend in the ranks of government ministers in that as I speak their bench is empty. Mr Corbell, as the duty minister, has spent about 30 seconds in the chamber in the last half an hour. I am pleased that he has now returned to the chamber. (Quorum formed.)

I thank Ms Dundas for coming down to make up a quorum. The disregard and the childish behaviour of Mr Corbell have been exposed even further. If his answer to the embarrassment of not fulfilling his duty as minister to maintain at least a sole presence on the government bench is to start calling quorums, something that this place has avoided in its 13 or 14-year history, if his answer is to be childish, then he will be known by that childish nature. It is important that the government have a presence here, Mr Speaker. It is one of the forms, one of the traditions, that we have always followed. People will judge Mr Corbell by his actions in calling the quorum this evening. I wish members well. Goodnight.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

The Assembly adjourned at 11.26 pm.

Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . .