Senator IAN MACDONALD (Queensland) (17:10): Thank you, Mr Acting Deputy President. I am conscious Senator Xenophon wants to speak. Senator Jacinta Collins: On a point of order, Mr Acting Deputy President, Senator Xenophon was on his feet. You may not have seen him at the time. I have made that point to you. We have already had two speakers from the other side of the chamber. It is quite out of order not to allow Senator Xenophon to make his contribution at this stage. Senator Fifield: Mr Acting Deputy President, on the point of order: Senator Macdonald was on his feet first. I do understand the convention of moving the speakers around the chamber. However, I think there is only so long a senator should be expected to stand on their feet before they are recognised and given the call. A senator cannot stand on their feet indefinitely waiting for another senator to get to their feet. But there should be the opportunity for all senators to contribute. Senator Xenophon and Senator Macdonald should both have the opportunity to contribute. The only way that will not occur is if the government moves a gag motion. The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT ( Senator Bernardi ): Let me just give you the benefit of the advice that I have received. It was very clear to me that Senator Macdonald was on his feet well before Senator Xenophon, but I have been advised by the Clerk that it is reasonable to expect proportionality in contribution to debate. Given those circumstances, I will call Senator Xenophon.