Senator ALLISON (Leader of the Australian Democrats) (3:16 PM) —by leave—On behalf of my Democrat colleagues I wish you well as you join senators on the bench in August and thank you for a job very well done. You have commanded great respect, not just on both sides but right around the chamber, at this end as well. You have done better than most, in my experience, at seeing those of us on our feet in the cross benches. Thank you for your generous hospitality, which those of us who are leaving this place enjoyed just a week ago—that was a most enjoyable night. It was one of many social functions which you have held here, which I have enjoyed enormously.

I wish you well and thank you again for your great fairness and integrity in the role you have played. I also congratulate Senator Hogg on being the new President. We will not be here to see how fair you are but, judging by your performance as Deputy President, I am sure you will do a fantastic job.