Speaker of the House of Representatives David Hawker was forced to make a ruling from the Chair yesterday on suitable dress for parliamentarians.

“In
1999 the former Speaker, the Hon. Neil Andrew, pointed to the
significance and role of this unique institution and the expectation on
the part of electors that we, as members, maintain high standards in
carrying out our responsibilities and in our conduct in this place,” he
said. “The accepted practice is that members have chosen to dress in a
formal manner in keeping with business and professional standards. This
includes trousers, jacket, collar and tie for men and a similar
standard of formality for women. I would also like to make the point
that these standards apply equally to officers and staff occupying the
advisers boxes, members of the press gallery and guests in the
distinguished visitors gallery.”

Perhaps the flesh on display earlier in the day at the pollies swimming race had something to do with it.