Richard Colbeck (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance and Administration) Share this | Hansard source

I think that, generally, there is consensus on the perspective of the intent of Senator Fielding’s amendments. The government has a position with relation to the Dawson legislation which came through this place earlier in the year, and we have a view as to what we would like to see passed. Obviously, that will be dealt with at the same time. Certainly, the issue that Senator Fielding raises is not one that we are dismissive of. It is something that is contained within the Dawson legislation, and we would like to see that passed. Perhaps that is something that could be discussed with Senator Fielding down the track. Given the reasons that have been quite well articulated by others in the chamber on this matter, the government will not be supporting the amendments.