Mr ROCHER(12.51 p.m.) —I seek leave to make a few short remarks with your indulgence, Mr Speaker.

Mr SPEAKER —The suspension of standing orders covered three members for debate. However, under the special circumstances pertaining, I invite the member for Curtin to make some brief remarks. This will be the only indulgence that I will allow. Members will be invited to make further comments at a later period this day.

Mr ROCHER —I thank you for that consideration, Mr Speaker. As you know, the Special Air Service Regiment is located in my electorate of Curtin at Swanbourne, Campbell barracks. As a result of my electoral duties, I have had occasion to mix and mingle not only with the commissioned officers of the regiment but with the non-commissioned officers, troopers and their families in special ways. I welcome the opportunity to express a few remarks in this Australian parliament on this occasion having learnt of such tragic losses in recent days.

It is a tradition of the army, and certainly a tradition of the regiment, that they will look after their own and do so with pride and compassion. Nevertheless, it is incumbent upon me, on behalf of the people in my electorate, to express my condolences and theirs to the regimental family. I have said to the commanding officer that, if there is anything I can do—and I am sure that I express the views of the vast majority of Australians—to ease the burden of anyone's grief, my office and I will remain at their disposal. As I say, I am sure that would be the attitude of all members of this House.

Mr SPEAKER —I note the presence in the galleries of the commanding officers of the Special Air Service Regiment and the 5th Aviation Regiment. I welcome you, gentlemen, on this very sad and melancholy day for us. I invite members as a token of their respect to join me by standing in their places.

Honourable members having stood in their places—

Mr SPEAKER —I thank the House.