Doug Cameron (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Human Services) Share this | Hansard source

My question is to the Minister representing the Prime Minister, Senator Brandis. Today, the Deputy Prime Minister told the House of Representatives that he has asked that the question of his eligibility to be elected under section 44 of the Constitution be referred to the High Court. When Senator Canavan made a similar statement, he also said, 'Given the uncertainty around this matter, I will stand aside until the matter is resolved and resign as the Minister for Resources and Northern Australia.' Can the minister explain why Senator Canavan was required to step aside but the Deputy Prime Minister has not?