Sue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Scarr has sadly not made the effort, but I'm confident he would not repeat his defamatory statements outside of the parliament. Melissa Parke has asked me to read some final words from her: 'Ultimately, resolution of the Palestine-Israel conflict will require everyone to take a step back and see the larger picture. What is the most desirable outcome here? I'm sure everyone can agree it is not a continuation of fear and hatred, of injustice and fighting, of suffering and loss. It is not a continuation of angry words and accusations of blame and smear. It is rather to agree that these two great peoples can live together in one land, as they have in centuries gone by, in peace and understanding, and in truth and equality. Equality and respect for the rights and dignity of all in one great state, including Palestinians and Israelis alike, without distinction of any kind, must be the basis upon which this longstanding conflict is resolved. That is my hope and the shared hope, I believe, of the many people of goodwill. Thank you in advance for all your efforts to bring this outcome into reality.'

I conclude by calling upon Senator Scarr to retract his disgraceful words and to make an apology to the Hon. Melissa Parke.