Nick Minchin (SA, Liberal Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

by leave—On behalf of the opposition I want to associate the coalition with the remarks by Senator Faulkner in his ministerial statement on this first anniversary of the tragedy in Mumbai. It was indeed, as Senator Faulkner properly said, an horrific event and a great tragedy. We join with Senator Faulkner in acknowledging and remembering those killed and wounded in this dreadful event. We acknowledge the bravery and sacrifice of all those involved, those who tried to help, those wounded and those whose memories will be scarred for life by their experience of that dreadful event. All of us who have travelled in India and, like me, have been to Mumbai feel that tragedy particularly because of what a magnificent country India is and what a wonderful people India has. That this tragic event happened upon Indian soil is something that touched the hearts of all Australians and people all over the world. As Senator Faulkner properly says, it is a gruesome reminder of just how determined those who perpetrate terrorism are that they are prepared to take innocent life in pursuit of their horrific objectives. I am pleased that in this country the government and the opposition stand firm together in our joint efforts, whether we are in government or in opposition, to ensure Australia plays its part in combating this sort of evil—terrorism—that so tragically befell Mumbai one year ago today.