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

Senator Wong, you'd be sadly mistaken if you thought that I was seeking a fight. I'm not seeking a fight. Senator Wong, we had an informal discussion—

The TEMPORARY CHAIR: Minister, you need to seek leave as well.

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Leave granted.

Let me repeat. If Senator Wong thinks I'm seeking a fight she's sadly mistaken. She most certainly will know if I am. But I would say, on this matter—

Senator Wong interjecting —

Senator, that's not my intention whatsoever. I don't think this matter is merely a consequential amendment to the amendment that was agreed by the chamber in relation to the annual report. Of course I accept that that is agreed by the chamber and now forms part of the bill. There is no question in relation to that. If, with the provision of the annual report, the chamber is then minded to refer it to a committee at the time then that will be a matter for the chamber. But this is an order of continuing effect, Senator. It's not a minor amendment and the government doesn't support it.