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

To say I'm disappointed that formality has been denied under what has been explained to me as being a complex foreign affairs matter beggars belief. This motion doesn't relate to a nation state. It doesn't relate to foreign affairs matters at all. It relates to the funding of an organisation that has direct and tangible links and history with terrorism. It relates to the decision of the American government, in which they have withdrawn funding for this organisation because it is not committed to a peaceful solution. I understand that the objection from some in this chamber is because it would cause some difficulties with their own politics. But you cannot deny the factual nature of what has been presented. I would ask the Senate to once again reconsider and have the courage of your convictions. Vote against the truth if that's what you want to do, but do not deny the truth from being spoken.