Christine Milne (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I ask that general business notice of motion No. 735, which endorses the legal ban on nuclear power stations in Australia, be taken as a formal motion.

John Watson (Tasmania, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise on a point of order, Mr President. Can we have clarification of whether Australian law bans nuclear power stations? I know there are certain activities that are prohibited, but I hesitate to support something that may not necessarily be 100 per cent factually correct.

Paul Calvert (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It is not really a matter for the chair, as I understand it. Is there any objection to this motion being taken as formal?

John Watson (Tasmania, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Yes, I object on the basis of the matter that I raised earlier. I know it is not the usual procedure; the usual procedure is to vote against the motion. In the event that there is doubt about it, it worries me. I believe the Senate is entitled to a clarification.

Paul Calvert (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

There is an objection, so the motion cannot be taken as formal.