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

What we do know is that there are 4,000 refugees in Malaysia who would under the terms of this agreement be able to be moved to Australia. So on the simple question of whether people that are sent to Malaysia will be caned, the answer is no. They will be treated with dignity and with respect in accordance with human rights standards. That clearly means there will be no caning. That is what the agreement makes very clear. It is important to note that the transferees will have legal authority to remain in Malaysia and be able to work. On the other hand, the proposal that the Liberal Party are advancing is to suggest—

Honourable senators interjecting—