Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

Senator, it was for the same reason we supported you being able to speak when you asked last night and, unfortunately due to procedural reasons, were not able to proceed. We have a general proposition that, where people act appropriately, we try to treat them with respect and allow them to make their point within the bounds of managing the chamber more broadly. So we were prepared to give leave. I know this is highly contested space. It seems to me it would have been appropriate for Senator Brown to be given the opportunity to reply to Senator Brandis and then have that be the end of the matter. Clearly that has not occurred. That is unfortunate, but I do think the issues have been aired. I think this will continue to be contested space, but I think the interests of the Senate are best served if we deal with it, and I move that the motion be put.

Question agreed to.