MOTIONS

Senator THORPE (Victoria—Independent VIC Whip) (12:01): I think I have to withdraw calling people racists for being racist. The PRESIDENT: Senator Thorpe, you simply withdraw comments you made yesterday without repeating the offence. Senator Thorpe interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Hang on a minute, Senator Thorpe.

You need to be genuine in the withdrawal— Senator THORPE: I'm not being genuine, but I'll withdraw because that's what the colony wants me to do. The PRESIDENT: Senator Thorpe, that is not appropriate. You simply need to stand and withdraw the comments you made yesterday without repeating them.

Senator THORPE: I withdraw. The PRESIDENT: Thank you, Senator Thorpe.