Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

But the difference in what the Manager of Opposition Business went to—I've obviously had cause to reflect on this prior to today—is that he is being asked about a quote from before he was the Deputy Prime Minister, and the Practice makes very clear that ministers cannot be asked about their statements prior to being a minister. It makes it very, very clear, and I can take you to the page if you'd like. In fact, for the benefit of the House, I think I should.

A Minister can only be questioned on matters for which he or she is responsible or officially connected.

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A Minister may not be asked a question about his or her actions in a former ministerial role.

It talks about statements as well. The only exception that's been allowed by a Speaker is if a minister themselves refers, in an answer to a question, to a statement made in a former role. Let's just be clear for everyone watching: the Deputy Prime Minister is being asked about a statement he made when he was a backbencher, not the Deputy Prime Minister, and the Practice has made very clear those questions are out of order.

An honourable member interjecting—

No, it doesn't. I know he's being invited to answer it. If the question is out of order, it's out of order. It's as simple as that.

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