New Speaker Michael Frendo, presiding over his first sitting in the House of Representatives, this evening urged MPs to read their questions during Question Time and not just refer to them by their number, because it was difficult for radio listeners to follow.
At present, when MPs are called by the Speaker, they do not actually ask their questions to ministers but refer to them by their reference number as listed on the Order Paper. The procedure is laid down in Standing Orders.
Dr Frendo said this standing order made sense when sittings were not carried on radio, but it was now time for the House to consider changes and he would refer the matter to the Standing Committee which is discussing such issues.