Labor MP appointed to Speaker’s Panel

Federal Labor MP for Macarthur, Michael Freelander has been given the role as one of the House of Representative’s Assistant Deputy Speakers.

“In this role, I will assist the Speaker of the House of Representatives (and his deputies), taking the chair from time to time and presiding over the deliberations of the House,” Mr Freelander said.

“The role of speaker is an integral component of our democracy.

“The speaker must uphold order in the parliament and ensure that parliamentary rules and protocols are adhered to by all.

“I consider it a great privilege to have been appointed to the parliament’s Speaker’s Panel, and thank my colleagues from both sides for entrusting this great responsibility to me.”

Mr Freelander will continue with electoral duties; he is also the Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee into Health, Aged Care and Sport.