Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Minister for Employment) Share this | Hansard source

Of course I am not going to indicate to the Australian Greens—or indeed anybody else—the direct contact that may or may not have been held in these very difficult circumstances, where it may well stand to reason that logistical and operational matters may have been discussed. Of course we are not going to divulge anything of that nature.

But I think what the Australian people can be absolutely assured of is that the Australian government—and, if I might say, especially through the leadership of our Prime Minister—has shown international leadership in relation to this issue, and we have seen support from diverse administrations from the United States, the United Kingdom and the other countries I previously mentioned, saying this is the right thing to do. What is more, it is supported by the European Union and the United Nations. It seems the only ones not supportive are the Australian Greens. (Time expired)