Malcolm Turnbull (Wentworth, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

Again, we are going through what I have described as the pantomime of politics, which is one of the reasons why her constituents, my constituents and all of our constituents get fed up with what politicians do and say. A government improves a measure—consults, changes it, improves it, makes it work better. In the real world, where all our constituents live, people say: 'That's good. They listened and they tweaked it. They made a change. Good on 'em. That's great. They're listening to us. It' sensible'—but in the pantomime of the 70 minutes of this parallel universe of question time it is a humiliating backflip! We have to get real about the art of policy making in this parliament, and that involves our side, your side and the crossbenchers working together constructively, honestly, openly and objectively to achieve the best policy outcomes. So perhaps we can suspend that for 70 minutes—it is a bit of entertainment—but I would say to the honourable member that, if she believes any of our measures can be improved, she should let us know. We will look on what she says in good faith. All suggestions are gratefully received. We are determined to consult, negotiate and achieve for the people of Australia in this their 45th Parliament.

Mr Brian Mitchell interjecting—

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