Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Keneally's question indeed did contain references to quotes about the consequences of crossing the floor. The point I was making in relation to the consequences of crossing the floor is that on our side of the chamber, the Liberal and National parties, members and senators have a right to cross the floor. Yes, you would expect and anticipate that party leaders would wish to discuss that with Liberal or National MPs. But, for those opposite, there is no such right. The only consequence there is that their party tosses them out if they cross the floor. That is a fundamental difference, and it's a difference of which we are all very proud, on this side.