Why do members of parliament address the Speaker and not the questioner during Question Time?

Under the standing orders – rules of the House of Representatives – members of parliament must address all remarks, including questions, through the Speaker. This shows respect for the Speaker, who runs the meetings in the House of Representatives. It also helps the Speaker keep order and discourages members from engaging in private argument.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives in the Speaker's chair, which is a large wooden chair on a platform.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives

Penny Bradfield/DPS Auspic

The Speaker of the House of Representatives

The Speaker of the House of Representatives in the Speaker's chair, which is a large wooden chair on a platform.

Penny Bradfield/DPS Auspic

Description

The Speaker is a member of the House of Representatives who has been chosen to run the meetings of the House. In the House of Representatives the Speaker sits in a large, green, elevated chair behind a desk. From this position, the Speaker can see and hear all other members and all other members can see the Speaker. 

Permission should be sought from DPS AUSPIC for third-party or commercial uses of this image. To contact DPS AUSPIC email: auspic@aph.gov.au or phone: 02 6277 3342.