Cory Bernardi (SA, Australian Conservatives) Share this | Hansard source

I will only trouble the Senate for a few moments. I regret that this motion has been brought on at this time. I'd had some conversations with Senator Leyonhjelm about delaying or deferring it for the simple reason that I needed more information in order to make a decision.

I've met with some of the canegrowers and I have respect for their position, albeit that slightly nuanced positions have been put to me in some of the discussions with different interest groups. What I haven't been able to ascertain is the position of the 'alternative narrative' from the other side of the equation.

As I said, I regret that the government has brought this on. I still don't understand the particular reasoning for it but I will listen to the debate and make my decision accordingly.