House debates Questions without Notice
Minister for Foreign Affairs
Tanya Plibersek Sydney, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition
2:22 pm
Thank you, Mr Speaker. I will rephrase. Can the minister explain to the House what the implications are for Australia's relations with other nations of the special loyalty the minister has shown to first Brendan Nelson, then Malcolm Turnbull, then Tony Abbott, then Malcolm Turnbull?
Ms Julie Bishop Curtin, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs
Obviously the deputy leader is not very adept at rephrasing questions—
Mr Mitchell interjecting—
Ms Julie Bishop Curtin, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs
but nevertheless there are no implications for our bilateral, regional or multilateral relations. I might add that the role of deputy is to be the deputy to the Prime Minister or the leader.
Mr Mitchell interjecting—
Ms Julie Bishop Curtin, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs
It is a separate role, elected separately. It is not part of a joint ticket.
Mr Husic interjecting—
Ms Julie Bishop Curtin, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs
I have fulfilled my responsibilities and my duties as the Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party since 2007.
Mr Champion interjecting—
Tony Smith Speaker
The member for Wakefield is warned as well. I need to be able to hear the questions and the answers.
An opposition member interjecting—
The member for Chifley is warned as well.