parliamentary privilege

Is this an outdated concept? One that allows the MP's to pretty much say what they want under immunity of ordinary law.

Does it really "help parties carry out effectively their functions". Wouldn't having to tell the truth or at least having to complete some due diligence be way more effective than just the name calling and mud slinging that goes on?

Hot Copper members know too well that what they say can be used against them in a court of law, but MP's well, just as long as I can get some political point scoring and then maybe retract my comments (at 7.26pm at night - Bill)all should be good.

IMO politicians would get a lot more respect if they had to speak to each other the same as you and I do.