The DEPUTY SPEAKER ( Ms AE Burke ) (15:46): I wish to make a short statement in respect of budget night. I would like to remind members that the usual arrangements will apply for the budget speech tonight and on Thursday for the speech in reply by the Leader of the Opposition. As with any other proceedings of the House, the member with the call is entitled to speak without interruption. I will take the necessary action to ensure that this is the case for both speeches. Where appropriate I will take action under standing order 94(a) and will advise any offending member by written note. Any further action that I consider warranted will be initiated at the commencement of the next sitting day.

I ask members to ensure that their guests arrive at the galleries in time to undertake the security clearance and be seated in the galleries in a way that ensures the smooth operation of the House. I trust that there will be cooperation from members and from their guests in the galleries and that budget night and budget reply night will proceed smoothly for the benefit of the House and for those watching and listening to the proceedings.