Madam SPEAKER - 2008-09-11
Madam SPEAKER: Honourable members, before we continue, I will read into the Hansard the sessional order relating to the naming of other people who are not members of parliament and our freedom of speech in this place. It is worthwhile to remind members of this:
I am reminding honourable members of this because allegations have been made about a number of people today in Question Time. I ask members to be mindful of their rights in terms of freedom of speech.
- Freedom of speech
(1) That the Assembly considers that, in speaking in the Assembly or in a committee, Members should take the following matters into account:
- (a) The need to exercise their valuable right of freedom of speech in a responsible manner;
- (b) The damage that may be done by allegations made in Parliament to those who are the subject of such allegations and to the standing of parliament;
- (c) The limited opportunities for persons other than members of Parliament to respond to allegations made in parliament;
(d) The need for Members, while fearlessly performing their duties, to have regard to the rights of others; and
- (e) The desirability of ensuring that statements reflecting adversely on persons are soundly based.
(2) That the Speaker, whenever the Speaker considers that it is desirable to do so, may draw the attention of the Members to the spirit and the letter of this resolution.
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I am reminding honourable members of this because allegations have been made about a number of people today in Question Time. I ask members to be mindful of their rights in terms of freedom of speech.
Last updated: 09 Aug 2016