DISTINGUISHED VISITORS

The SPEAKER (14:00): I inform the House that the Rt Hon. Gerry Brownlee MP, Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, is within the precincts. With the concurrence of honourable members, I propose to provide him with a seat on the floor of the House.

Honourable members: Hear, hear! Speaker Brownlee was then seated accordingly. The SPEAKER: Members, allow me on your behalf to extend a very warm welcome to my friend and colleague Speaker Brownlee.

I have been informed that it has been 21 years since a visiting speaker joined us on the floor. The last was the late Jonathan Hunt, also of the New Zealand parliament. Australia and New Zealand share a uniquely close relationship.

On behalf of all members, I wish you a warm welcome to Australia and, in particular, to the House of Representatives. Honourable members: Hear, hear!