House debates

Wednesday, 2 June 2021

Statements by Members

National Security

1:59 pm

Photo of George ChristensenGeorge Christensen (Dawson, National Party) Share this | | Hansard source

Australia must reclaim the Port of Darwin. In February this year, I delivered the Pivot report from the Joint Standing Committee for Trade and Investment Growth which recommended the government assess whether or not the Port of Darwin's lease to the Chinese Communist Party-owned Landbridge Group is in the national interest. It's not in the national interest to have port infrastructure in the hands of a foreign company, particularly a company from communist China which has recently used trade as a tool for economic coercion. Fighting for Australia's national interest should not be controversial yet this morning I read that the Leader of the Opposition describing our government's efforts as 'nationalistic'. (Time expired)

Photo of Tony SmithTony Smith (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

The member for Dawson will resume his seat. In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members' statements has concluded.