I have considered the application from Senator McQuillan to raise, on the motion for the adjournment of the House tonight, the following matter:—
The invocation by the Government of the Offences Against the State Act, 1939 in present day circumstances.
I rule that it is not admissible for discussion on the Adjournment on the following grounds:—(i) there is no Ministerial responsibility involved, and (ii) the subject matter is, in any event, too wide and should be brought forward by way of substantive motion.
I should also like to point out that I received notice of the matter only this morning, although the relevant Standing Order provides for notice by 3 p.m. on the day previous to the sitting. I would like to draw the attention of Senators to this requirement as my discretion to accept matters at shorter notice will be used only in very exceptional circumstances.
The Senator has been notified of my decision.