WHAT CHANGES SHOULD BE MADE TO QUESTION TIME?
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An inquiry has recommended changes to the way Question Time operates in the House of Representatives.
* Questioners won't be allowed to ask about alternative approaches (a phrase which gives a minister the chance to bag the opposition in their answer).
* Time for questions should be limited to 30 seconds, and answers should be two minutes maximum.
* The opposition should be allowed a 30-second supplementary question each Question Time with a 90-second government answer.
* Question Time should have a minimum of: 10 questions from opposition members; five questions from government members; five constituency questions from government members; and one question from a non-aligned member.
* Prime minister cannot refer a question to another minister to answer without first speaking to the matter of the question themselves (no immediate flick-passing).
* No points of order can be taken in the first 30 seconds of an answer.
* Speaker can direct a disorderly member to leave the chamber for a period of either one or three hours.
* Trial of limiting mobile phone usage during Question Time, with a view to possibly banning their use.
* Move statements on indulgence and condolence to earlier in the day (rather than chew up Question Time).
Australian Associated Press