COMMITTEES

Senator SCARR (Queensland) (18:49): Just quickly, on the same report, can I provide my compliments to Senator O'Neill. Don't leave while I'm paying you a compliment, Senator O'Neill! I think Senator O'Neill provided outstanding leadership during this inquiry and, consistently throughout this term, has also provided outstanding leadership of the Joint Standing Committee on Corporations Law and Financial Services.

As you mentioned, Senator O'Neill, there were outstanding contributions in relation to this inquiry, in particular from the member for Swan, and I think that should be noted. A lot of thought went into the recommendations made in the report. I was very pleased to be part of that detailed consideration, and I do hope that the government seriously considers those recommendations.

I was personally shocked by much of the evidence that we heard, and I think there are matters which should be addressed on an urgent basis as a matter of priority. I seek leave to continue my remarks later. Leave granted.

The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT ( Senator O'Neill ): Can I thank you for those kind words, Senator Scarr, and acknowledge your fantastic contribution not only to that report but to the committee as well. Debate adjourned.