Tony Windsor (New England, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Mr Speaker, I wish to make a personal explanation.

David Hawker (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Does the honourable member claim to have been misrepresented?

Tony Windsor (New England, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Yes.

David Hawker (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Please proceed.

Tony Windsor (New England, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I do claim to have been misrepresented, as do my Independent colleagues, having been described as bugs by National Party Senator Ron Boswell in today’s media. I take grave offence at this description, especially when it comes from a gnat, which by definition is the lowest form of insect life, an insignificant annoyance—

David Hawker (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The member has made his point.

Tony Windsor (New England, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Being called a bug by a gnat is a compliment.

David Hawker (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The member will resume his seat.