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When the Speaker calls ‘Questions without notice — Are there any questions?’, members from both sides of the House wishing to ask a question stand in their places to attract the Speaker’s attention.
| 1 | The call. The Speaker decides the call (ie a member’s turn to ask a question). The usual practice is the first question is given to the Opposition, normally the Leader of the Opposition, and the question is usually directed at the Premier. The call then alternates between each side of the House. |
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Questions asked. Opposition members usually emphasise matters that could embarrass the Government. Government backbench members often ask arranged questions to make the government look good or put forward their policies. These questions are called 'Dorothy Dix' questions. |
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Language of questions. The Speaker may direct a member to change the language of a question if it is inappropriate or does not follow the rules of the House. Questions asked must be succinct, direct and seek factual information. Questions must not give an opinion or state facts, except to explain the question. |
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Answers. Questions are answered immediately. Answers must be direct, factual and succinct, and must not debate the question. |
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