Senate debates

Monday, 13 February 2017

Motions

President of the United States of America

4:10 pm

Photo of Scott LudlamScott Ludlam (WA, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that:

  (i) the Trump Presidency is causing deep concern and unease in the Australian community, and

  (ii) the Speaker of the House of Commons in the United Kingdom, Mr John Bercow, said on 7 February 2017 that speaking in Westminster Hall "is not an automatic right, it is an earned honour", and that he would not issue an invitation to President Trump;

(b) affirms the principles expressed by Speaker of the House of Commons; and

(c) resolves that senators will act in accordance with these principles, and reject any invitation to attend an address by Mr Trump to the House of Representatives.

4:11 pm

Photo of James McGrathJames McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Photo of Gavin MarshallGavin Marshall (Victoria, Deputy-President) Share this | | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Photo of James McGrathJames McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | | Hansard source

Australia's alliance with the United States is based on deep and enduring strategic and economic interests and respect for share values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law. This motion is a cheap political stunt. The Greens' reckless approach would damage Australia's prosperity, harm our national security and jeopardise the wellbeing of the community.

Photo of Gavin MarshallGavin Marshall (Victoria, Deputy-President) Share this | | Hansard source

The question is that the motion moved by Senator Ludlum be agreed to.