Parliamentary Procedure

Sittings and Business

The PRESIDENT (14:20): Just before we begin, we do not start here until 2.15. I do not think it is appropriate that I am hanging out there for five minutes after the supposed commencement of time waiting for some latecomers. There are—

The Hon. T.A. Franks: I wouldn't be saying that, given your lateness the last sitting week.

The PRESIDENT: You give me an example.

The Hon. T.A. Franks interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: I am not here to argue with you, the Hon. Ms Franks—not here to argue.

The Hon. T.A. Franks interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: I would advise you to be quiet. I have been sitting out there on a number of occasions. I did not say you in particular, so just stay there and listen to what I have to say. It is not appropriate to be out there for five minutes. If that is the fault of our bells ringing and not switching off, I will have discussions. There are a couple of people here for whom it may warrant keeping the bells going, but in general most people should be here on time.