Peter Whish-Wilson (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'd like to make a short, one-minute statement in relation to a matter said about me in the adjournment debate last night by Senator McGrath while he was in the chair.

Scott Ryan (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

You can seek leave to make a statement at any point, if leave is granted. Are you seeking leave to make a one-minute statement?

Peter Whish-Wilson (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

A one-minute statement, maybe even less, Chair.

Leave granted.

I have been an acting deputy president myself for nearly five years. I was quite shocked and surprised to learn this morning that, during the adjournment debate last night—although two hours prior to it I had taken myself off the speaking list—Senator McGrath, in the chair, said, 'For those playing along at home, Senator Whish-Wilson has missed his spot, so, Senator Bragg, you now have the call.' I think it's totally inappropriate, firstly, for any acting deputy president to make those kinds of comments and to use that position to have a go at another senator, especially if they hadn't made inquiries as to why that senator wasn't on the list. So, President, could I ask you to take that on notice and seek a response from Senator McGrath and bring it back to the Senate chamber. I'd like this issue dealt with.

Scott Ryan (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Yes. I will speak to Senator McGrath and ascertain what happened. I may come back to you privately, or to the chamber, as is appropriate, Senator Whish-Wilson.