Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

It's certainly the case that Australia's democratic system of government allows, respects and, indeed, welcomes members of parliament having a voice on issues across the nation—issues in Australia's national interest. It's one of the reasons why we come to this place to go to work. It's one of the reasons why we do this job. It's one of the reasons that we are blessed with the privilege and the opportunity of standing up in a house of parliament, freely and democratically elected to do that job. I understand the issues that prompt Senator Wong to ask that question. For my part, I am very strongly attached to Australia's democratic processes and I will continue to be so.