Julia Gillard (Lalor, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

Because in its negativity it is so opposed to the national interest, the opposition in this parliament under this Leader of the Opposition trashed the outlook of the former Howard government, trashed everything that was ever said or acted upon by the former Howard government in enabling governments to make appropriate decisions about offshore processing. The member who asked this question was part of leading the opposition to a position that meant it did everything it could to stop the government entering into an arrangement with Malaysia and putting it into operation. It decided that, instead of having the maximum deterrence for boats, it wanted to see more boats. Now, this reckless negativity has cost our nation. It has meant that people are embarking on dangerous journeys. It is against safety at sea. It has also meant that we have seen more boats.

Mr Morrison interjecting—

See this speech in context