DOCUMENTS

Senator CHISHOLM (Queensland—Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Assistant Minister for Resources and Deputy Manager of Government Business in the Senate) (16:54): I seek leave to make a short statement. The PRESIDENT: Leave is granted for one minute. Senator CHISHOLM: The government will be opposing these motions.

These orders are written with substantial scope and include ministerial submissions, records of conversation, letters, briefing notes, meeting agendas, file notes, meeting invitations, meeting notes, meeting minutes, emails and instant/electronic messages. The orders also seek all of these documents over a 10-month period. We urge the senator to reconsider her motions, particularly when it comes to the scope and time allowed to comply.

The senator should also seriously consider the significant amount of time these fishing expeditions are taking away from the important work of public servants. The PRESIDENT: The question is that general business notices of motion Nos 315 and 316, standing in the name of Senator Payman, be agreed to.