Andrew Wilkie (Denison, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

The member for Denison is sometimes accused of all sorts of things, but in this case the member for Dobell is accused of all sorts of things and some of those accusations are most serious. I do believe that in an extraordinary situation like this it would be appropriate for the member for Dobell to stand and make a statement, even if it is as simple as saying, for example, 'These are serious allegations currently under investigation and I think it is appropriate to reserve my comments until those investigations are complete,' or whatever he might choose to say. He might choose to address each and every one of the allegations point by point. It is up to him. But I think it is appropriate that he stand up and say something. Then we can end these constant attempts to suspend standing orders, which have now disrupted three days of sitting in this place.

This is a remarkable episode. It is out of the ordinary. I will support the amendment put forward by the opposition.

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