Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the senator for his question, I am sure the Prime Minister will take on board his travel tips. The reality is that on this occasion the Prime Minister is not visiting Japan. As I understand it, the Japanese embassy last night released a statement confirming our strong and growing relations. I also understand up to four of our ministers have already visited Japan—we have a very strong relationship with Japan. I understand that the Prime Minister has also accepted an invitation to attend the G-8 summit in July. These are questions of importance to Australia. The Prime Minister will continue to pursue Australia’s national interest, and his engagement with Japan will continue to be at a very senior and serious level. But on this occasion—on this trip—he is not visiting Japan.