Nick Xenophon (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement which may assist.

Leave granted.

Subject to what the co-mover of this second reading amendment, Senator Wright, says on this, of course procedurally we cannot have a division before 12.30. If it is on the record that both the government and the opposition oppose this amendment then that would obviate the need for a division in these circumstances—if that would assist the chamber to proceed with the bill. As long as it is clear who has voted for what, I think that would be a fair outcome. I invite the government and the opposition to set out their reasons for opposing the amendment. That is not strictly necessary, but that way we can move on with this piece of legislation.