Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Hansard source

Just before I put the question, I am not going to insert myself into the debate, but I will make one comment, and it relates to the comments of the Leader of the Government in the Senate and the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate in relation to the way, or the speed, in which this matter is dealt with. One of my core functions is I protect the Senate and I protect the interests of the Senate. The interests of the Senate will be best served when we operate with a full complement and when we have the certainty of the eligibility of senators within this chamber. So I add my voice to that and say that I would like this matter dealt with as soon as possible without, in any way whatsoever, casting any disrespect on the manner in which the High Court, acting in the court as the Court of Disputed Returns, will act. But the Senate and the democracy of this country are best served if the matter is resolved quickly.