Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I do not want to extend the debate, but I want to briefly reply to the statement made on behalf of the opposition. I want to make the point that we would certainly appreciate cooperation in finalising the bill today, but we are now debating a recommittal of amendments that were defeated yesterday in order to go back to the House of Representatives with a clear indication that the opposition will not insist upon them when they come back. It can only delay the process for no impact, unless the opposition is to insist on those amendments. I do not want to lengthen the debate or argue the point and delay the Senate. For the record, this is a recommittal to support amendments that will not be insisted upon. Therefore, there will be no impact from this other than delaying the parliament. I do appreciate the offer from the opposition to facilitate the bill this afternoon. If we can organise that we will.