Don Farrell (SA, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I hate to disappoint you, Senator Patrick, but Labor will not support this amendment, because it is not in the national interest. Senator Patrick apparently has not done his homework, as I have found is so often the case. If he had, he would know that he risks jobs and opportunities by doing what he proposes. This amendment is an irresponsible stunt. I will repeat that: this amendment is an irresponsible stunt.

By being part of the first six countries who ratify this agreement Australian industry stands to benefit from the immediate tariff eliminations: firstly, on Australian iron and steel products and aluminium exported to Canada; secondly, on Australian sheepmeat exports to nine countries; thirdly, on raw wool; fourthly, on Mexico's 20 per cent pork tariff; fifthly, on cotton; and, sixthly, and not insignificantly to your own state, Senator Patrick, on Australian wine, seafood, horticulture, cereal and grains to Canada—

Senator Birmingham interjecting—

Thank you, Senator Birmingham, I need that assistance. Senator Patrick risk gains for the South Australian wine industry, something I know a little bit about—