Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) Share this | Hansard source

Every friend of Australian science was dismayed by the reports that Senator Stephens refers to. Such behaviour is contemptible and has no place in Australia and yet we have seen those threats dismissed by some in this building as nothing more than a mere contest of ideas. It is as if to say there is nothing wrong with the behaviour that we have seen in parts of this country. This government sees a difference between robust debate and downright abuse of our scientists. The government sees a difference between peer review and fearmongering. This government will not pretend that the earth is flat no matter how convenient it would be for some on the other side of this chamber to have us believe it. For this government, the choice is clear. We respect the science and we call on you to change your ways and respect the science too. (Time expired)