Tony Abbott (Warringah, Liberal Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to support the remarks of the Prime Minister, prompted by this latest disaster in the seas to our north. We mourn for the dead; we grieve for the living, who have suffered much; and we offer our support to all the naval and other personnel who have done what they could in the search and rescue effort. If there is anyone to blame in a tragic situation like this, surely it is the people smugglers who prey on desperate people's desire for a better life in Australia. Obviously at a time like this all of us consult our consciences on what is the best course of action to take. I am sure all of us in this House have resolved to put policies in place that will end forever this evil trade.

See this speech in context