Eric Abetz Tasmania, Liberal Party, Minister for Employment
3:03 pm
Mr President, before asking that further questions be placed on notice, can I thank you on behalf of the whole chamber for presiding over exactly 300 question times, as of today. Thank you for your service. I ask that further questions be placed on notice.
Penny Wong SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate
Can I add my thanks on behalf of the opposition, Mr President, for your term as President and for presiding over a great many question times. I know that there are times where we on this side—perhaps even me—have tested your patience—
Unidentified interjection - Hansard doesn't record who said this
Government Senators:
Government senators interjecting—
Penny Wong SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate
I know it is hard to believe! Mr President, we thank you for the way in which you have sought to exercise authority and the dignity with which you have conducted yourself. Thank you very much, Mr President.
Nigel Scullion NT, Country Liberal Party, Minister for Indigenous Affairs
3:04 pm
Mr President, could I add my acknowledgement of your fine work in this place. Law makers always talk about the rule of law, and I think you have to apply it in one of the most difficult environments. Congratulations and good luck in the future.
John Hogg President
Senator Siewert—I did recognise you, Senator Siewert. You have not had a change of hairstyle for a while.
Rachel Siewert WA, Australian Greens
Thank you, Mr President. I would like to add the Greens good wishes and thank you for the work you have done in the chamber. I do not know if I am going to have to keep reporting to the President every time I get a haircut—
Rachel Siewert WA, Australian Greens
I will have to check with Senator Parry about that one!