This motion was brought by Liberal leader Leanne Castley in response to a previous debate about the use of standing order 213A. This is a mechanism through which MLAs can compel the Government to release documents or other information. Labor supported the motion with minor amendments.

Thomas supported this motion with Labor’s amendments as he believes transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of a well-functioning democracy. His position is that the ability for MLAs to use standing order 213A, which permits the Assembly to order the Government to produce certain documents, is a critical part of this. He does not subscribe to the view, previously put forward by the Chief Minister, that Members should first use Freedom of Information processes to garner information from the Government. It is the responsibility of MLAs to ensure government decision-making is not unnecessarily sheltered from public scrutiny, and to prioritise the transparent provision of facts over managing public perception. 

While some arguments were made that the mechanism could be used vexatiously or in a way that might unreasonably burden the ACT Public Service, Thomas trusts that his fellow MLAs will use standing order 213A in good faith. Attempts to misuse it would, he believes, simply be voted down by a majority of Members.