Live coverage from State Parliament this afternoon at www.theage.com.au

The state government is controversially considering whether it will continue to grant a pair for a Labor MP who is undergoing treatment for cancer.

Up until now, Northcote MP Fiona Richardson had been granted a pair while she was treated for breast cancer.

Government whip Bill Tilley emerged from the party room shortly before 11.30am on Tuesday and said "negotiations were continuing" in regards to Ms Richardson.