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

I'm going to ask Senator Wong to withdraw the interjection directed at Senator McKenzie.

Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I withdraw, Mr President. Can I get guidance on your ruling?

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

Yes.

Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

If we say the government are rorters, that is not to be withdrawn, but, if I say Senator McKenzie is a rorter, that is to be withdrawn—is that correct?

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

Thank you, yes. Could I just read something to the chamber in response to that query? This has been provided previously to others who have requested similar advice. While the word 'rort' is not itself unparliamentary, an allegation that a senator rorted a program would be considered out of order in Senate proceedings on the basis of the prohibition in standing order 193(3) against imputations of improper motives and personal reflections made against senators and members. So, going to the point I made to Senator Scarr, it is when it is directed in a personal nature.