Senator SCHACHT (Minister for Science and Small Business and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Science) —by leave—I move:

  That consideration of the business before the Senate this day be interrupted not later than 5.30 p.m. to enable Senator Abetz to make his first speech, for a period not exceeding 30 minutes, without any question before the Chair.

Senator Reid —I would like a clear understanding of what is happening before we support this. Senator Abetz was to make his speech at 5 o'clock. Apparently, Senator Gareth Evans wants to make his ministerial statement on Macedonia, which I believe would take about 20 minutes. It was our proposal that the maiden speech should be made before that occurs to avoid the minister perhaps having to stop in the midst of reading his statement. We need to have a clear understanding of what is occurring.

Senator SCHACHT —I am advised that the motion states `not later than 5.30 p.m.' so that would not occur.

Senator Reid —So if the minister needs to stop during his speech, he will.

Senator SCHACHT —Yes.

  Question resolved in the affirmative.