Scott Buchholz (Wright, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

Of course, Mr Speaker, but the room understands the point that I am trying to make. These guys need to celebrate the fact that their polling is still in double figures. I do not think we can expect to see those for too long.

On the 24th, I encourage all of my colleagues and the nation to dress in black to mourn the death of fiscal responsibility since this government came to office. Only a coalition government will stand for the principles of less tax, less government and no wasteful spending. This government is more about hypocrisy than democracy. How else do you explain why we will not have a plebiscite on the issue of a carbon tax—a people's vote which would cost about $80 million?

Government members interjecting—

We would not have the expense of that $80 million if you guys had got it right the first time. You guys must just roll over in your beds each night regretting the fact that the Prime Minister, six days before the election, said, 'There will be no carbon tax under a government I lead.' That is your Achilles heel. Surely $80 million will be seen as an investment in our nature's future and democracy when Australia risks losing as much of its gross domestic product.

Honourable members interjecting—

Mr Speaker, the activities of the parliament tonight are not something that I am proud of. I hope we shift away from this disgraceful behaviour, but I can assure you that, as I said earlier, irrespective of how loud and how hard the government try and drown out my voice, they will never drown out the voice of the silent majority of my nation. (Time expired)

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