George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Yes, Senator Cameron. There are obvious factual and legal differences between the two cases. However, in view of the fact that the matters are now before the High Court, it would not be appropriate to engage in discussion of them, lest to do so would limit any submissions the Solicitor-General may wish to make. Suffice it to say that, when acquainted with the situation on 25 July and on the basis of his understanding of the facts at that time, Senator Canavan decided that he would prefer to stand down. The facts of Mr Joyce's case are much clearer to us than were the facts as known to Senator Canavan at the time he made his decision. And, on the basis of those known facts and clear Solicitor-General advice, the government does not consider that there is sufficient reason for Mr Joyce to stand down.