Might I claim the indulgence of the House for a few moments? I want to know if it would be possible to take Senator Hogan's motion at an earlier part of our proceedings. I wonder would Senators agree to take it as No. 3 on the Order Paper? If it were taken after Senator Johnston's motion, perhaps it could be dealt with this evening. It relates to agriculture and it is a very important motion. The Minister might be available this evening and, if Senators were willing to take it in the order I have suggested, probably it could be dealt with before we rise to-night.
Order of Business.
As Senators are aware, motions are placed on the Order Paper in the order in which they are received and, unless there is agreement with those in whose names the other motions stand, I do not think the House can do anything to meet Senator Foran's wishes. I take it that Senator Johnston will move his motion after Senator Tierney's has been dealt with.
My motion has been on the Order Paper for over two months and I regard the subject-matter of it as of greater public importance than the subject-matter of Senator Hogan's motion.
It is suggested that I should give precedence to another motion, I understand.
Yes, to Senator Hogan's motion.
I am sorry, but I do not think I can consent to that. I have already waited a long time.
Surely it is not contended that farmers, or the agricultural industry generally, will be greatly helped by Senator MacDermot's motion?
Senators must not discuss the matter further. In the circumstances we will proceed with the business as set out on the Order Paper.