GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Leader of the Opposition) (15:21): A supplementary question.

The PRESIDENT: The Hon. Mr Ridgway has a further supplementary.

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY: What is the government's strategy should the minister's voice fail or she be ill and unable to take part during the committee stage of a bill?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Public Sector Management, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister for Gambling) (15:21): Mr President, I can assure the honourable members that I am a most resilient person. I am in tip-top health, and I expect to be able to be present through all proceedings where I am needed.

The Hon. R.I. Lucas: You're a waste of space at the best of times.

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. R.I. Lucas: There's a vacuum between both ears.

The PRESIDENT: You should not talk about yourself like that!