Points of Order — Member’s Notice of Motion No. 2—Wording

I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. You will be aware, as we all are, that questions in the House are approved by the Clerk’s Office and that notices of motion come through a similar system, as well. Appearing on page 6 of today’s Order Paper is a notice of motion that is a gross affront and insult to all of Parliament. With the greatest of respect, I do not know how it got through—or whether there is a grammatical problem with the National Party and its leadership—but clearly, I do not think a member can allege that this House has a gross lack of knowledge of the Standing Orders. I think it could be said that we, collectively, are the experts, and that we do not exhibit a gross lack of knowledge. That being the case, what remedies does a member of Parliament have when he or she reads such a notice of motion?

I agree with you that the way it is expressed does give rise to two interpretations. In fact, the grammar is completely wrong. It was submitted correctly. It can be put down as a notice of motion. That is a way it can be done; but then, of course, it is a matter for debate.

Finding of Contempt—Hon Dr Nick Smith