Speaker’s Rulings — Ministerial Statements—Changes to Standing Orders

Before I call the Leader of the House for his ministerial statement, for which notice has been given, I want to explain to the House how it will operate. The 2020 review of the Standing Orders recommended that members be able to engage in a short question and answer session with the Minister giving the statement. The intention of the Standing Orders Committee was that ministerial statements could operate in a similar way to the committee of the whole House, where members ask questions and Ministers answer them. So the Minister can make the statement, and then members may ask questions if they wish and/or make comments. I will allow an extended time, if necessary, for Ministers who ask questions. Ministers are required to address these questions but are not given carte blanche to make another speech.