Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

The member for Gilmore will cease interjecting. In fairness to the member for Cunningham and the Manager of Opposition Business, this is not a kneejerk ruling I have made. I did allow a similar question which I felt I was in error I think last week.

An honourable member interjecting—

No, it was further ago than yesterday. Sometimes yesterday feels like last week. Having reflected on the matter, I do not think that those sorts of fishing expedition questions that do not go to the Prime Minister's responsibilities or any minister's responsibilities are desirable and fit within the standing orders. I am prepared to obviously allow questions that go to a minister's responsibilities, but on this occasion I just do not feel that those questions are within the standing orders. I really do not. The member for Cunningham.

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