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Sessional Order Details

Sessional Order (561) - Matters of Public Importance (adopted 23 March 2016)

This Sessional Order amends Standing Order 110. Click this link to view the Standing Order.
MATTERS OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE
(adopted 23 March 2016)

That, during the current session, unless otherwise ordered, Standing Order 110 shall read as follows:

110. The procedure for Matters of Public Importance within the daily Routine of Business, is as follows:

(1) The matter, which must be definite, shall be handed in writing to the Speaker no later than 12.00 noon and immediately published.
(2) The Speaker shall determine whether the matter is in order. In the event that more than one matter is submitted, the Speaker shall determine which matter is of the greatest public importance.
(3) There shall be no dissent from the ruling of the Speaker in relation to the operation of this Standing Order.
(4) At least 30 minutes prior to the time for Question Time –
      (a) The Premier, the Leader of the Opposition, the responsible Minister in the House, Members submitting matters and the Independent Members shall be informed in writing of the matter determined by the Speaker to be discussed.
      (b) The Speaker, by placing a notice on notice boards, shall inform Members of the matter.
(5) As provided in the Routine of Business the Speaker shall call the Member concerned to proceed with the matter. The matter cannot be amended.
(6) The following time limits shall apply:
      Member submitting matter – 5 minutes
      Member next speaking – 5 minutes
      One other Member – 3 minutes
      Reply – 3 minutes
      Total – 16 minutes
(7) At the conclusion of the discussion no question shall be put.
(8) A division on any question or quorum call shall not be permitted during Matters of Public Importance.