Rex Patrick (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I wish to make a brief comment, because I think it is worth distinguishing the role of the judiciary from the role of the Senate. The role of the judiciary is to in fact deal with either criminal or civil offences. That is not the subject of this particular amendment; this goes to the fitness of a member of parliament to be a minister, to be part of the executive. It is in fact the constitutional duty of the Senate to have oversight of government. It is a principle or a key pillar of a responsible system of government that the cabinet is responsible to the legislature. I just wanted to distinguish that there are two issues. One could be judicial and one is clearly a proper matter for the Senate in the execution of its constitutional responsibilities. I say nothing as to the allegations that have been raised. But it is appropriate that, if a question is raised, it can be examined by the Senate.