George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Marshall, you have me at a disadvantage because I am here not representing the minister; I am here only to manage this bill, which bears no relationship with the issue that you have raised. However, out of courtesy to you, Senator Marshall, I will raise the question with the minister.

Minister, is it possible to get someone who could actually speak on behalf of the government in relation to this matter?

Senator Marshall, we are very close to being not relevant to the question before the chair. This bill has no relationship to the issue of the arrangements for mandatory reporting of child abuse. Senator Marshall, you may ask me about that policy matter, but all I would be able to do is convey to you my assurance, which I have already given, that I will raise the matter with the minister, whom I do not represent in this chamber.