Santo Santoro (Queensland, Liberal Party, Minister for Ageing) Share this | Hansard source

I do not quite seem to understand the direction of Senator Allison’s questioning. You have put forward a far-fetched hypothetical scenario. Sure, the legislation does not require that a person with experience in ethics relating to research involving human beings must be appointed. If you want an honest answer from me to your question—and I am always strongly inclined to give totally honest answers, particularly in this place—I would say that, yes, it is possible for six ethicists to be appointed by using the flexible provision of this legislation. But I want to ask senators in all seriousness—and this question could also be asked in the general community—what appointment process would place itself in the ludicrous position of having one level and one type of expertise that is over-represented on the committee to the exclusion of what would undoubtedly be other categories of relevant expertise that could usefully provide advice on the committee? The answer is, yes, it may be possible, but it is highly unrealistic that that would be the case. People like me would argue that there probably is a need from time to time—perhaps frequently—for an ethicist to be available to advise on a committee such as the one we are discussing. Hypothetically speaking, if I were the responsible minister, would I appoint six? Would six such appointments be contemplated let alone made? I strongly suggest to you, Senator Allison, that that would not be the case.