Senator BERNARDI (South Australia) (09:36): I am just seeking a point of clarification. This is seeking approval for a committee to meet whilst the Senate is sitting. If that being the case— The PRESIDENT: I am about to deal with that point. Senator BERNARDI: If that being the case, it only takes one objection by a senator before it has to be put to a vote. That is my understanding of the standing orders. The PRESIDENT: That is correct, Senator Bernardi, but what has actually happened is I have asked if any senator wishes to have the question put on any of these matters. Senator Macdonald has not asked that. He sought a point of— Senator Ian Macdonald: I will. The PRESIDENT: I am going to get to the points. Firstly, it is not a matter for the President to determine the affairs of a committee. A committee determines its own affairs. One of the points of concern has been raised by Senator Macdonald. Maybe Senator Macdonald should write to the Procedure Committee or write to me in relation to that to have that matter examined. Secondly, committees determine their own agendas and their own issues. It is up to the Senate if it wishes to take issue with the performance and with the outcomes and the deliberations of a committee. But a committee is empowered by this Senate to deliberate and take action.