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

I thank Senator Cameron for the question. Not only was Senator Cameron asleep at the wheel when his time had commenced to ask the question; he also failed to tell the Australian people and the Senate the full quote. Where he conveniently stopped, he did that to try to—well, for whatever his purpose might be. I continued: 'I'm not going to comment on it other than, given whatever the culture might be, you want employees and employers to treat each other with respect and due consideration.' Why could Senator Cameron not bring himself to quote that to the Australian people and indeed to the Senate? Why is it not possible for Senator Cameron ever to honestly represent that which is said by those of us on this side? Quoting half-sentences might be your game, Senator Cameron—it diminishes you; it diminishes the Labor Party. From my perspective, what I have said at all times is—and I repeat—that employers and employees should treat each other with respect and due consideration.