Larissa Waters (Queensland, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I ask that general business notice of motion No. 1054, relating to the Tibetan plateau, be taken as a formal motion.

Gavin Marshall (Victoria, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Is there any objection to this motion being taken as formal?

Scott Ryan (Victoria, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Yes.

Gavin Marshall (Victoria, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Formality has been denied.

Scott Ryan (Victoria, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Gavin Marshall (Victoria, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Scott Ryan (Victoria, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I thank the chamber. Sensitive foreign policy matters should not be dealt with through Senate motions. Individual members or senators may have personal views but they should not be adopted as the formal position of the Australian Senate. The Australian government recognises the Chinese government's efforts to provide economic development in Tibet and to preserve the Tibetan grasslands. We also welcome China's ongoing commitment to address climate change and its constructive role at last year's COP 21 climate negotiations. Nomadic communities in Tibet have a unique culture and way of life that should be respected and preserved. We encourage China to consult with communities about any process of relocation and recommend authorities take measures to ensure that adequate alternative means of livelihood are available.