Members will be aware that the position of Clerk of the House will become vacant at the conclusion of the term of the current clerk, Mr Ian Harris AO, on 4 December 2009. The position was advertised in the national press on 23 May 2009 and a selection process was undertaken with the assistance of the Parliamentary Service Commissioner, Ms Lynelle Briggs. In accordance with my responsibilities under section 58(2) of the Parliamentary Service Act 1999, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Bernard Wright as the Clerk of the House of Representatives, to take effect from 5 December 2009.