Bronwyn Pike.
THE loss of Bronwyn Pike will bolster the state government's numbers in the lower house, with the Opposition unable to seek a pairing arrangement.
The state government has 45 members in the House of Representatives, three more than the Labor Party since Ms Pike (pictured) resigned as the State Member for Melbourne.
State Opposition spokeswoman Jill Hennessy said once a member had stepped down it was not technically possible to arrange a pair.
"Consistent with advice provided by the Parliament Clerks, no political party is able to ask for a pair once a seat is vacated," she said.