Fast-track Approvals Bill

Right, members, the House is in committee on the Fast-track Approvals Bill. We come first to the debate on Part 1. Part 1 is the debate on clauses 3 to 9, “Preliminary provisions”, and Schedules 1, 2, and 3A.

Before we begin, I draw the committee’s attention to the Minister’s amendment to listed projects in Schedule 2 set out on Amendment Paper 238. Advice I have considers that it is out of order as being in the nature of private legislation. Many of the projects are listed under authorised persons in a private capacity. The effect of being listed appears to be of benefit to the specified persons, which would differ from other persons who apply for fast-track approval. Provisions that are for the particular interest or benefit of a person or persons are classified as private legislation by Standing Order 257(1)(d). As a result, the Minister’s amendment to Schedule 2 set out on Amendment Paper 238 may not be debated and no question will be put on it. The question is that Part 1 stand part.

Point of order, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, on this side of the Chamber, we take a different point of view in terms of the advice that you have received from, I presume, the Clerk, and I seek now your confirmation: are you accepting the advice of the Clerk to rule out the schedule?

CHAIRPERSON (Barbara Kuriger): Yes, I have.

Hon SCOTT SIMPSON: In that case, I would ask that the Speaker be recalled to further adjudicate on this matter, because this is an important principle and an important part of this legislation.

OK, we have a request that the Speaker is recalled. Is that a vote? That is a vote. The question is, That the Speaker be recalled to give a ruling on the matter.

Motion agreed to.

House resumed.

Speaker Recalled