Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the senator for his question. I am somewhat surprised that you would walk into a question like this. I know that you have very strong views on these questions, but you would have thought that the questions committee in the opposition would have provided you with more facts. This was a Howard government decision in 2003, which meant that Bibles and holy books were no longer considered appropriate gifts to be distributed to new citizens at citizenship ceremonies. I appreciate your interest in the matter, but you should check the facts before you walk in. I think Senator Abetz has set you up again. I think it is something to do with Tasmanian politics. It is very unfortunate and quite cruel in fact.