Can you explain the history of why MPs speak with a piece of paper over their head sometimes?

Hi Saira, thanks for your question.

The practice of members of parliament covering their heads with paper comes from a rule in the British Parliament. In the British House of Commons, when a member wants to attract the Speaker’s attention they stand up. However, during a division when the bells would ring and members move around the chamber, it would be difficult to attract the Speakers attention. Members would either put on a hat or cover their head with a paper to attract the attention of the Speaker.

This practice was never included in the rules for the Senate or House of Representatives in Australia. Instead it was decided that any discussions about a division vote could be held immediately after the bells had finished. Despite this, there are instances when members of the Australian Parliament have observed the British tradition of covering their heads to speak during a division.