Tuesday was a remarkable day/night in the Northern Territory's Legislative Assembly as the Giles government first mustered and then lost the numbers in critical votes on the position of Independent Speaker Kezia Purick.

The government first gathered the numbers in an open vote on the floor of parliament to depose the Speaker, having the support of its 12 members and Independent Larissa Lee.

But as is required by standing orders, the Legislative Assembly moved straight into a secret ballot to elect a new Speaker.

Which is where it all came unstuck for the government. The government nominated Greatorex MP Matt Conlan, while Labor and the cross-bench re-nominated Purick.

In the secrecy of the ballot, one of the government's supporters voted for Purick, resulting in her being re-elected as Speaker. Now Purick and key cross-bench member Gerry Wood have said they are re-considering their past view that the government should serve out its term.

And emboldened by its success on Tuesday, Labor has given notice of a motion of no confidence, to be debated in December, that could be the first step to either a change of Chief Minister or an early election.

It is the latest blow for the Country Liberal government and a long way from the party's smashing victory under former leader Terry Mills in 2012, when the party won 16 seats in the Legislative Assembly to Labor's eight with one Independent.

In this post I have included the ABC-TV News reports of the remarkable events of Tuesday night, as well as background on the Giles government's shaky grip on power.


blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2015/11/northern-territory-speaker-defeated-and-the-re-elected.html#more

The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value.

Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously.

it sounds so typical of the Redneck NT.. mob rule..I have a friend who lives up there and its all eye rolling stuff...havent they sold the place off to the Chinese.... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 5:56am:

The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously.

Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 7:20am:

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be.

While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging.

Kytro wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 7:27am:

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging.

True. I was just addressing the idea of secret ballots. Labor has a lot more to lose than Libs since they already permit crossing the floor.

The NT will see Australia's next change of government. The current government has been quite farcical in its administration which has included a Chief Minister deposed while overseas. The NT public are sick of this conservative government and the government cannot survive for much longer.

Notice of a vote of no confidence has been given. I am not surprised. Not one bit. The only thing that's surprising really is that it has taken this long.

Labor voter wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 5:49am:

In this post I have included the ABC-TV News reports of the remarkable events of Tuesday night, as well as background on the Giles government's shaky grip on power. Northern Territory Speaker Defeated and then Re-Elected

Fixed it for you.

Bam wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 9:07am:

The NT will see Australia's next change of government. The current government has been quite farcical in its administration which has included a Chief Minister deposed while overseas. The NT public are sick of this conservative government and the government cannot survive for much longer. Notice of a vote of no confidence has been given. I am not surprised. Not one bit. The only thing that's surprising really is that it has taken this long.

Enjoy it since there is no likelihood of labor winning govt anywhere else.  Turnbull has got federal labor in an induced coma.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 9:28am:

Bam wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 9:07am: The NT will see Australia's next change of government. The current government has been quite farcical in its administration which has included a Chief Minister deposed while overseas. The NT public are sick of this conservative government and the government cannot survive for much longer. Notice of a vote of no confidence has been given. I am not surprised. Not one bit. The only thing that's surprising really is that it has taken this long. Enjoy it since there is no likelihood of labor winning govt anywhere else.

Wrong.

Labor is also in with a good chance in Western Australia, though WA's next election isn't due until 11 March 2017 - after the NT election.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 7:20am:

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be.

Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way.

I am sure that they wouldn't but would still prefer to see some honesty prevail.

On the fixed carbon price you also have no idea of how many conservatives may have chosen to vote to support an obviously good policy.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 9:28am:

Bam wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 9:07am: The NT will see Australia's next change of government. The current government has been quite farcical in its administration which has included a Chief Minister deposed while overseas. The NT public are sick of this conservative government and the government cannot survive for much longer. Notice of a vote of no confidence has been given. I am not surprised. Not one bit. The only thing that's surprising really is that it has taken this long. Enjoy it since there is no likelihood of labor winning govt anywhere else.  Turnbull has got federal labor in an induced coma.

http://www.perth-naturopath.com/eggs.jpg

One chicken two chickens three chickens

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 10:16am:

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. I am sure that they wouldn't but would still prefer to see some honesty prevail. On the fixed carbon price you also have no idea of how many conservatives may have chosen to vote to support an obviously good policy.

That's why i was hated by the majority of australians.  Move on DNA. The Carbon Tax issues has been tried and failed. But at least Shorten wants one back so he can make sure he loses by an even bigger margin!

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 10:43am:

That's why i was hated by the majority of australians.

:D :D :D

When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land.

:D :D :D :D

John Smith wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 11:52am:

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:43am: That's why i was hated by the majority of australians. :D :D :D When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land. :D :D :D :D

There seems to be absolutely nothing about context and content that you ever understand on any topic.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 12:00pm:

John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 11:52am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:43am: That's why i was hated by the majority of australians. :D :D :D When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land. :D :D :D :D There seems to be absolutely nothing about context and content that you ever understand on any topic.

Ohh, I understand that you have no consistency, all your arguments revolve around what works for the LNP. That is why Turnbull would never be PM just a week before he took over the top job but is now the best thing since sliced bread.  :D :D :D :D

John Smith wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 12:05pm:

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:00pm: John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 11:52am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:43am: That's why i was hated by the majority of australians. :D :D :D When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land. :D :D :D :D There seems to be absolutely nothing about context and content that you ever understand on any topic. Ohh, I understand that you have no consistency, all your arguments revolve around what works for the LNP. That is why Turnbull would never be PM just a week before he took over the top job but is now the best thing since sliced bread.  :D :D :D :D

as if to prove my point....

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 10:43am:

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:16am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. I am sure that they wouldn't but would still prefer to see some honesty prevail. On the fixed carbon price you also have no idea of how many conservatives may have chosen to vote to support an obviously good policy. That's why i was hated by the majority of australians.  Move on DNA. The Carbon Tax issues has been tried and failed. But at least Shorten wants one back so he can make sure he loses by an even bigger margin!

My comment was about the value of secret ballots not about the CT you are the one who brought that up.

The Fixed carbon price didn't fail at all.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 12:14pm:

John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:05pm: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:00pm: John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 11:52am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:43am: That's why i was hated by the majority of australians. :D :D :D When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land. :D :D :D :D There seems to be absolutely nothing about context and content that you ever understand on any topic. Ohh, I understand that you have no consistency, all your arguments revolve around what works for the LNP. That is why Turnbull would never be PM just a week before he took over the top job but is now the best thing since sliced bread.  :D :D :D :D as if to prove my point....

Only if your point was getting owned again.

Kytro wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 7:27am:

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging.

And that's all it ever WAS, a perception.

It had NO basis in reality.

cods wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 6:10am:

it sounds so typical of the Redneck NT.. mob rule..I have a friend who lives up there and its all eye rolling stuff...havent they sold the place off to the Chinese.... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Only the Port of Darwin - the part they didn't drink (oh - wrong Port), a few cattle stations, and maybe a mining lease or two.

Ah.... think of the profits going offshore....

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 7:44am:

Kytro wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:27am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging. True. I was just addressing the idea of secret ballots. Labor has a lot more to lose than Libs since they already permit crossing the floor.

of course they do--> the moral law is with the libs  ::) ::)

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 9:28am:

Bam wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 9:07am: The NT will see Australia's next change of government. The current government has been quite farcical in its administration which has included a Chief Minister deposed while overseas. The NT public are sick of this conservative government and the government cannot survive for much longer. Notice of a vote of no confidence has been given. I am not surprised. Not one bit. The only thing that's surprising really is that it has taken this long. Enjoy it since there is no likelihood of labor winning govt anywhere else.  Turnbull has got federal labor in an induced coma.

says a pretend copper internet afficionado  :o :o

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 12:29pm:

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:14pm: John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:05pm: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:00pm: John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 11:52am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:43am: That's why i was hated by the majority of australians. :D :D :D When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land. :D :D :D :D There seems to be absolutely nothing about context and content that you ever understand on any topic. Ohh, I understand that you have no consistency, all your arguments revolve around what works for the LNP. That is why Turnbull would never be PM just a week before he took over the top job but is now the best thing since sliced bread.  :D :D :D :D as if to prove my point.... Only if your point was getting owned again.

she seems to enjoy it.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 12:00pm:

John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 11:52am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:43am: That's why i was hated by the majority of australians. :D :D :D When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land. :D :D :D :D There seems to be absolutely nothing about context and content that you ever understand on any topic.

You put crack in the pipe and then smoke the crack: you don't smoke the friggin pipe itself  :D :D :D :D :D

How hot a flame thrower have you got for that perverted new idea ???????????????????  :o :o

John Smith wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 2:42pm:

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:29pm: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:14pm: John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:05pm: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 12:00pm: John Smith wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 11:52am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 10:43am: That's why i was hated by the majority of australians. :D :D :D When it come to the carbon tax, the majority of Australia know best, when it comes to CSG, Maria says the majority aren't informed and should be grateful that mining companies are taking over their land. :D :D :D :D There seems to be absolutely nothing about context and content that you ever understand on any topic. Ohh, I understand that you have no consistency, all your arguments revolve around what works for the LNP. That is why Turnbull would never be PM just a week before he took over the top job but is now the best thing since sliced bread.  :D :D :D :D as if to prove my point.... Only if your point was getting owned again. she seems to enjoy it.

Once they sell themselves .... there's no more talking to 'em!

Dnarever wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 10:16am:

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. I am sure that they wouldn't but would still prefer to see some honesty prevail. On the fixed carbon price you also have no idea of how many conservatives may have chosen to vote to support an obviously good policy.

You don't scare easily do you: oh, wait, marias crack induced last few non-sleep-filled weeks have made her think her typing is actually talking  :o :o :o :o ,... (I suppose  ::))  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Kat wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 1:16pm:

Kytro wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:27am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging. And that's all it ever WAS, a perception. It had NO basis in reality.

Yeah of course...  the fact that virtually every commentator noted that Labor screwed up virtually every policy was nonsense right? Even Labor MPs bemoaned the level of incompetence,

But we have seen Kat that you dont ever really think through your remarks. They are as predictable as they are worthless.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 2:51pm:

Kat wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 1:16pm: Kytro wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:27am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging. And that's all it ever WAS, a perception. It had NO basis in reality. Yeah of course...  the fact that virtually every commentator noted that Labor screwed up virtually every policy was nonsense right? Even Labor MPs bemoaned the level of incompetence, But we have seen Kat that you dont ever really think through your remarks. They are as predictable as they are worthless.

Wrong again.

UNBIASED commentators said nothing of the kind.

It was and is only the rabid neo-con sycophants who claim Labor was a failure.

The facts show otherwise.

Now get back in your box, you pro-fascist troll.

It was Longy posted this:

“But we have seen Kat that you dont ever really think through your remarks. They are as predictable as they are worthless.”

Irony eh?

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 2:51pm:

Kat wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 1:16pm: Kytro wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:27am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging. And that's all it ever WAS, a perception. It had NO basis in reality. Yeah of course...  the fact that virtually every commentator noted that Labor screwed up virtually every policy was nonsense right? Even Labor MPs bemoaned the level of incompetence, But we have seen Kat that you dont ever really think through your remarks. They are as predictable as they are worthless.

I wouldn't agree this assessment. People have a tendency to give government too much credit or blame. Labor was unremarkable at the time. The fact is that people saw the infighting as instability in terms of effective governance, but I tend to be of the view that for the most part government is actually run by the bureaucrats.

Reform is where politicians come in. If there was no reform, there would be little need for politicians.

mariacostel wrote on Nov 23^rd, 2015 at 2:51pm:

Kat wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 1:16pm: Kytro wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:27am: mariacostel wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 7:20am: Dnarever wrote on Nov 23rd, 2015 at 5:56am: The value of a secret ballot - giving people who are bullied into towing the party line the opportunity to vote honestly has a real value. Maybe all political votes should be done anonymously. Be careful what you wish for. Don't assume that all the surprise results will go your way. If there had been a secret ballot, do you think the carbon tax would have ever gotten up? Perhaps not. After all, it only needed ONE labor Mp to recognise what an electoral disaster it would be. While unpopular at the time, it was hardly the Government's biggest issue. The perception of incompetence is far more damaging. And that's all it ever WAS, a perception. It had NO basis in reality. Yeah of course...  the fact that virtually every commentator noted that Labor screwed up virtually every policy was nonsense right? Even Labor MPs bemoaned the level of incompetence, But we have seen Kat that you dont ever really think through your remarks. They are as predictable as they are worthless.

Yeah of course...  the fact that virtually every commentator noted that Labor screwed up virtually every policy was nonsense right?

Translation : The biased News ltd was critical of everything Labor did in the term.

Even Labor MPs bemoaned the level of incompetence

Translation: Mandatory addition of something made up that sounds good.