I move:—
That, in accordance with Standing Order 59, a Committee on Procedure and Privileges be appointed; and that the Senators to serve on the said Committee be nominated by the Committee of Selection.
Appointment of Committee on Procedure and Privileges.
I second the motion.
There is no suggestion of disagreement in connection with this motion but I understand there are some details which will have to be worked out by the Committee already set up.
I think there is no doubt that Senator Quirke is of opinion that the thing is automatic. That is not so. The Committee of Selection will have to consult with the Parties in relation to the selection of the individuals who serve on the Committee of Procedure and Privileges and on all other Committees.
And the Committee is not actually appointed until the names are sent back to us.
I quite understand that but there are certain differences of opinion as to the number which should come from each group and, while it is always slightly embarrassing to refer to groups—we are all supposed to be independents—I have the greatest confidence the Committee already set up will be able to iron the thing out to the satisfaction of the numerous independent groups comprising the House.
It has always succeeded in doing that. No doubt it will do it on this occasion.
I think the point should be made that it is better that these matters should be settled by the Committee of Selection rather than that they should be thrashed out in debate in the House. It is a much more satisfactory method. Despite what Senator Douglas says, that the appointment is not confirmed until it comes before the House, in actual practice what happens is that the Committee of Selection makes the appointment.
In fact, in spite of these interventions, we are all in the most complete agreement and the Committee of Selection in this House, and indeed in the other House has worked always in the most amicable and the smoothest possible fashion. I think Senator Quirke may rest assured that that situation will continue. I agree with Senator Hearne that it is much better that the Committee of Selection should deal with this matter and I think they will probably deal with it in future as it has been dealt with in the past, that is to say, in a very smooth, satisfactory way.
Motion agreed to.