Senate debates

Thursday, 24 November 2022

Bills

Restoring Territory Rights Bill 2022; In Committee

10:00 am

Photo of Simon BirminghamSimon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I just want to express support for the sentiments made by Senator Gallagher in relation to the attempt to close debate. Whilst I too have been a very strong and public supporter of this bill and its predecessor bills for a long period of time, it is the convention in this place that we do enable time for these sensitive, conscience and free-vote matters to be fully debated. I understand fully the position expressed by Senator Gallagher, and it's one shared by the coalition parties. I hope to see the matter resolved as quickly as possible.

I do understand the sentiment of colleagues who have a different opinion and had been expecting the debate to occur next week. I hope and trust that we will see amendments prepared as quickly as possible. I want to make it very clear that it is the full expectation, and will have my full support, for this bill to be concluded in the sittings and there is no intent to see any dragging out of that. I think in good faith Senator Duniam has made clear that is not his intent either in terms of wanting to have these amendments dealt with.

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