Robert McClelland (Barton, Australian Labor Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the honourable member for her question. It related to 79 people who have been transferred to Oceanic Viking. These matters and the treatment of those seeking asylum to Australia are significant issues. It is appropriate that these issues are raised in this parliament. I note that, for instance, over the weekend there were demonstrations either way, highlighting the political controversy in Italy, for instance. I think it is appropriate that we debate these issues sensibly in this parliament. It involves unquestionably complex international issues. In that context the member asked about these people. It obviously relates to the maritime border between Australia and Indonesia. I refer the honourable member to President Yudhoyono’s comments that these matters have to be resolved, one working with the other throughout our region.

The Prime Minister has indicated that this is a significant issue. We make no apologies for taking a hard-line response. At the same time, we are dealing with human beings.

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