Territory rights bill needs proper consideration
The Labor Government today sought to avoid scrutiny of its National Broadband Network plan by trying to bring forward debate on the Restoring Territory Rights (Voluntary Euthanasia Legislation) Bill 2010.
“I voted against the motion for two reasons. The first is that only nine of a possible 76 senators have had the opportunity to put forward their view on the Restoring Territory Rights Bill, and reintroducing it today would have resulted in senators being unprepared for a proper debate on this very important issue,” Senator Scullion said.
“The second is that the Government’s refusal to provide detail about the largest proposed infrastructure project in Australian history is irresponsible and unprecedented and they must be held to account.
“All parties had agreed to set aside time for debate on this bill at the next sittings. All senators were preparing to contribute to the debate at that time.
“Labor’s attempt to rush the bill through without proper deliberation was another example of a Government more intent on avoiding scrutiny of its flawed programs than being open and accountable, and it would have done a disservice to Territorians.
“Trying to debate this important bill with an inadequate amount of time and preparation would be disastrous if it led to it being voted down. It’s important we stick to the original schedule and get a majority onside first.
“The Government should stop using Territorians as a political toy and explain to Australians why they don’t think it’s necessary to produce a business plan for how they are going to spend $43 billion of taxpayers’ money.”
