Question highlights perceived imbalance in representation between upper and lower houses for specific regions (South West and Burrup). Premier's response deflects, focusing on broader debate about the Legislative Council's role and accusing the questioner of unfairness.

AnsweredQoN 290Legislative Assembly
Asked
7 November 2002
Portfolio
Premier

QuestionView source ↗

I have a supplementary question. Is the Premier aware that six other members of the upper House represent the South West Region, but only one member represents Burrup in the lower House? Why not give him a vote as well? Dr G.I. GALLOP

AnswerView source ↗

The question of the presidency of the Legislative Council and the voting powers of that position, and the role of our upper House in dealing with legislation, is a focus for debate. If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition is not capable of adopting an approach to that issue based upon fairness for all Western Australians, he will be revealed for what he is.
Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: The question of the presidency of the Legislative Council and the voting powers of that position, and the role of our upper House in dealing with legislation, is a focus for debate. If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition is not capable of adopting an approach to that issue based upon fairness for all Western Australians, he will be revealed for what he is.
The question of the presidency of the Legislative Council and the voting powers of that position, and the role of our upper House in dealing with legislation, is a focus for debate. If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition is not capable of adopting an approach to that issue based upon fairness for all Western Australians, he will be revealed for what he is.

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