It is proposed to take Nos. 1 to 3 as set out on the Order Paper.
Order of Business.
There is a proposal by the Leader of the House that the House should not adjourn for tea. I take it we are in order in dealing with that proposal because it has not been accepted as far as I know by the House. I should like to support Senator O'Quigley's contention that the normal hours of this House should not be transgressed. By agreeing to sit on through the interval that is laid down by Standing Orders, we are conniving at acting against the staff and as a Senator I object to that.
We are doing no such thing.
There is nothing in Standing Orders regarding an adjournment for tea. We can go on with the business.
On a point of order, with respect, I have not the Standing Orders before me but I believe that the two sessions mentioned are from 3 to 6 p.m. and from 7 to 10 p.m.
It is the invariable practice of the House that we adjourn in a civilised way from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a meal. Is that practice to be set aside now because of temporary difficulties?
The Chair appreciates the difficulty under which the House is working.
There may be extremely grave difficulties——
What is the procedure in this matter? Has the Leader of the House, as it were, absolute powers to make such a proposal and is that bound to be accepted without discussion or vote of the House?
This is a matter for decision by the House. I suggest that we go on with the business now and the matter can be again raised at 6 o'clock.
Yes; I think that is a proper suggestion.