Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

On the debate itself, if I could just make a couple of remarks, as seems timely now: obviously, on a question like this there are strong views, and the House recognises that, despite anyone's views, it's a historic proposition before the House. We've seen members wearing badges, which I think is on the right side of the line. I notice the member for Leichhardt's got a tie, which he wore yesterday, which is completely within the standing orders. That's fine. I just want to say to members my preference is that we don't keep extending props on the subject. We do have rules on props, and they're well known. I do need to point that out. At the conclusion of a long debate, it is reasonable that more tolerance will be shown by the chair. I just want to make that point. It's probably easier if I make the point that way. To date, it's been perfectly proper. I commend the member for Leichhardt and those who have spoken so far. We like to be able to compare ourselves with the other place favourably.

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