Cory Bernardi (SA, Australian Conservatives) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I ask that general business notice of motion No. 1073 standing in my name for today, relating to the Palestinian Liberation Organization, be taken as a formal motion.

Sue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Is there any objection to this motion being taken as formal?

Jacinta Collins (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Cabinet Secretary) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Yes.

Sue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

There is an objection.

Cory Bernardi (SA, Australian Conservatives) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In lieu of suspending the standing orders, I seek leave to make a brief statement for one minute.

Sue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Cory Bernardi (SA, Australian Conservatives) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

To say I'm disappointed that formality has been denied under what has been explained to me as being a complex foreign affairs matter beggars belief. This motion doesn't relate to a nation state. It doesn't relate to foreign affairs matters at all. It relates to the funding of an organisation that has direct and tangible links and history with terrorism. It relates to the decision of the American government, in which they have withdrawn funding for this organisation because it is not committed to a peaceful solution. I understand that the objection from some in this chamber is because it would cause some difficulties with their own politics. But you cannot deny the factual nature of what has been presented. I would ask the Senate to once again reconsider and have the courage of your convictions. Vote against the truth if that's what you want to do, but do not deny the truth from being spoken.

Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Sue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave it granted for one minute.

Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Senator Bernardi, Australia is a longstanding and strong supporter of the two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. We urge all parties to return to negotiations towards an enduring peace. Australia does not provide development assistance to the Palestinian Liberation Organization. Australia remains committed to delivering aid to vulnerable Palestinians, including through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. This support is a demonstration of the government's longstanding commitment to a two-state solution where Israel and a future Palestinian state exist side by side in peace and security, within internationally recognised borders.