Mr ROBERT BROWN (1:58 PM) —Mr Speaker, let me take advantage of the 1½ minutes remaining to convey my personal congratulations to you on your elevation to the position of Speaker. I would also like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to the former Speaker, Bob Halverson. This morning I heard you refer to the very great dignity that Bob Halverson brought to that position. If we were to select anyone from the coalition government to fill that position for the remainder of this parliamentary term, I think that most members of the chamber would and have appreciated the opportunity for you to do so.

Mr Speaker, it was mentioned this morning that your background of 34 years in this chamber has acquitted you in terms of experience and commitment and your own personal dedication to the purposes of the parliament and the nature of this institution to fulfil it. As you know, the opposition also said quite correctly that it will be collectively examining the way in which this forum is conducted. What takes place within the four walls of this chamber is of enormous importance to the whole tradition and complement of democratic procedures in Australia. I congratulate you.