The next stage is called second reading. At first reading the Member introducing the bill simply gives a brief statement of the bill's intent. He then makes a motion that the bill be approved at first reading. The members motion is seconded and then voted on by all the Members of the Legislative Assembly. The approval at first reading only means that members have allowed the bill to be discussed at the next stage.
Members have the opportunity to state their overall views on the proposed legislation.
The role of the opposition is to carefully scrutinise proposals that are brought forward by government and, where we find fault, to offer amendment, to suggest change and, failing that, to strenuously oppose the legislation that we disagree with. While the role of the opposition might at first appear to be negative, it is actually one of the most positive aspects of our parliamentary democracy. Ours is a system where the opposition has full, rights to openly disagree with the government, to offer its alternatives and to attempt to defeat government legislation that it opposes. These attributes make our system an open and healthy one, a system that has stood the test of time. Parliamentary debates includes question periods and detailed examination of the government.