Senate debates Committees
Environment, Communications and the Arts Reference Committee; Reference
John Williams NSW, National Party
3:38 pm
I seek leave to amend business of the Senate notice of motion No. 2 standing in my name for today.
Kerry O'Brien Tasmania, Australian Labor Party
I am not sure. I have not been advised of this proposal. It would be useful if there were some consultation.
Alan Ferguson Deputy-President
I remind senators that standing order 66(3) says that, if formality is sought, a formal motion shall be put without debate and without amendment. Senators can get leave. Leave can be granted for anything. But I remind senators of that standing order, because I think there has been a tendency in recent times for that not to be done.
Chris Evans WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate
Mr President, I seek leave to make a very short statement.
Chris Evans WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate
I indicate on behalf of the government that, if Senator Williams wants to delay his motion, we will grant leave for it to come back later on. That would give us a chance to look at his amended motion so that we can facilitate the business of the Senate. If he would like to show it to Senator O’Brien in the meantime, we would certainly come back to it.
Alan Ferguson Deputy-President
Do you agree with that, Senator Williams?