Rex Patrick (SA, Centre Alliance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I wish to make a short statement in relation to the motion moved by me, Senator Bernardi and Senator Whish-Wilson.

Scott Ryan (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The motion wasn't moved because formality was denied, but you can seek leave to make a statement on any matter you wish. Leave is granted for one minute.

Rex Patrick (SA, Centre Alliance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I just want to point out that the motion that was moved was a very reasonable and measured motion in response to something that was quite horrific. We've had a journalist basically murdered for doing their job. We need to stand up very firmly in support of any journalist who gets treated in that manner. It's abhorrent. As an alternative, I would invite the government, and in particular the Minister for Foreign Affairs, to make a statement to this chamber, perhaps in similar terms to statements made by France, the US, the UK and the UN. I ask that the government consider that request.

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.

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

Leave is granted for one minute.

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

In line with the government's longstanding view, motions that cannot be debated or amended should not be dealt with in this chamber, particularly as they relate to complex foreign policy matters. The Australian government have expressed our concerns and note the statements of the US and the UK and many other nations in expressing concerns at the disappearance of Mr Khashoggi. There is a joint Turkish-Saudi investigation into the disappearance, and we call on all parties to the investigation to act transparently and in good faith and to cooperate fully. Australia's views on this matter have been made clear to the Saudi officials through formal channels.