The exchange followed the resignation of Speaker Peter Slipper, who was accused of sexual harassment by a former staff member.

BBC: Asia

Australia's parliament Speaker Peter Slipper has resigned amid a continuing sex scandal, dealing a blow to Prime Minister Julia Gillard's government.

BBC: Australia: Speaker Peter Slipper quits amid sex scandal

An Australian court has rejected a sexual harassment case filed against former Speaker of Parliament Peter Slipper, who had been forced to resign.

BBC: Australian court rejects sex case against former Speaker

But the prime minister had not bargained for the political storms that have burst around Peter Slipper, the speaker, and Craig Thomson, an ex-Labor figure.

ECONOMIST: Australian politics