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

Senator Barnett, might I just refresh you on the facts. The opposition seems to be only too happy to grandstand on divisive issues without checking the facts. But in 1998 the version of the code under the heading ‘Holy books’ stated:

Some local governments may choose to make a gift to each new citizen of the particular holy book on which the candidate will make the Australian Citizenship Pledge.

This version of the code also included ‘holy book’ under the list of appropriate gifts that may be given to citizens on page 8 of the guide. However, in 2003 under the Howard government this advice was changed to include the words:

Candidates who wish to use a holy book or scripture when making the Pledge should be invited to bring the holy book or scripture of their choice to the citizenship ceremony.

That was on page 35. At the same time holy books were removed from the list of appropriate gifts which are included on page 19. So go to Senator Abetz and ask him why he set you up with such a question.