Honourable senators, after consultations with the leaders and facilitators it has been agreed that we should more strictly adhere to the times allowed during Question Period. The reading clerk stands 10 seconds before times expire during Question Period, and the Speaker will stand once time is exhausted, irrespective of whether a question or answer is concluded. Senators should resume their seats at that time.

The console operators have received a general direction to cut microphones whenever the Speaker stands, whether during Question Period or at other times. This respects the fact that, when the Speaker rises, rule 2-7(2) requires that senators resume their seats, which also means that any interventions should cease.