It is proposed to take business in the following order: Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. It is also proposed to sit until 9.30 p.m. and we will adjourn for lunch from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Order of Business.
Would Senator Ryan indicate with regard to the Appropriation Bill if he has given any consideration to a suggestion which I heard being made that even if the debate is not finished, the Bill could be formally passed and the debate continued, rather than keep the House sitting unduly long?
Many people are anxious to come in on the Appropriation Bill and I am sure we would appreciate some opportunity of having the chance to speak on the numerous items in it. This is the one real opportunity we have during the year of speaking on virtually any aspect of Government business, and I am sure that the acting Leader of the House would like to facilitate the suggestion made by the Leader of the Opposition.
We propose sitting tomorrow till 5 p.m. I have every sympathy with Senator Cooney. Last year we passed the Bill and had the debate some time in January. I understand that for the month of January 1979 this House will be undergoing repairs and we may not be able to use this chamber until the first week of February. We will do our best to get the debate finished by tomorrow, and if not we will pass the Bill and adjourn a further debate until we come back, whenever that is. That is as much as I can say.
Order of Business agreed to.