Ted O'Brien (Fairfax, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I have spent much of my working life in greater China, and so, when I first heard about Senator Dastyari's treasonous behaviour, my first thought was: how would China—

Honourable Members:

Honourable members interjecting—

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The member for Fairfax will resume his seat. Members on both sides will cease interjecting. This has been a very robust debate with respect to Senator Dastyari, but the member for Fairfax used a word that is utterly unparliamentary. It hasn't been used to date, and he needs to withdraw it.

Ted O'Brien (Fairfax, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I withdraw it.

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The member for Fairfax may proceed.

Ted O'Brien (Fairfax, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

What came to my mind was: how would China deal with one of its senior officials who was not only on the take from a foreign agent but also providing anti-surveillance information, and then fronted foreign media holding a view with respect to the South China Sea that was contrary to the view of both the government and the Communist Party? It doesn't matter what country it is. Any senior official who undermines the interests of the nation that they represent is not worthy of office, and the Leader of the Opposition should have the courage to remove the senator from this parliament. (Time expired)

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members' statements has concluded.