Stephen Conroy (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

It is not just the Prime Minister who has got no confidence in Senator Johnston. What did we see in this morning's papers? His colleagues have condemned him. One senior Liberal called the defence minister's remarks 'some of the most stupid words I have ever heard from a senior minister'. Off the record, was that you, Senator Birmingham? Another called them 'breathtaking'. Assistant infrastructure minister, Jamie Briggs, said his comments were wrong. Liberal senator Simon Birmingham, whom the whips have dragged back into the chamber, said, 'There is no excuse for denigration of the workforce or of the extensive capabilities that South Australia has.'

Honourable senators interjecting—

Sean is back. Give the whip a bonus. They are working overtime out there.