House of Representatives Speaker Peter Slipper briefly presided over the chamber at 2pm today.
Slipper read a short statement that asserted his innocence of charges levelled at him, proclaimed his belief in the presumption of innocence, and decried trial by media.
Slipper then handed over to Deputy Speaker Anna Burke and left the House.
It was most likely Slipper’s last appearance as Speaker.
- Listen to Slipper’s statement:
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Text of Slipper’s statement to the House.
Honourable members will know that some allegations have been made in relation to me by James Ashby, including a claim under civil law and a claim of criminal behaviour. [Read more...]




Alby Schultz, the Liberal member for Hume, has announced that he will not contest the next federal election.
Mr CRAIG THOMSON (6:12 PM) — Can I say right at the start what a great honour it is to be here today representing the people of Dobell in this place. Not many people get the honour and privilege of representing in federal parliament and to be counted amongst them is an immense privilege.
