QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:04): Now we see the whole point of the question, which was to re-ask yesterday's question so Senator Paterson could deliver that grab in the last minute. I look forward to his social media clip on this, but it will not hide the fact that they—two things.

First, you are a policy-free zone, and, second, you went to the last election with higher taxes. Senator Hume interjecting— Senator WONG: Senator Hume—higher taxes. Senator 'Higher Taxes' Hume is now the deputy leader of the Liberal Party— The PRESIDENT: Minister Wong, please— Senator Hume: You lie.

Senator WONG: She has to withdraw that. You can't handle the truth. Honourable senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Minister Wong!

Order! The last time I read the standing orders, I was in charge here. You will withdraw, Senator Hume, when I require you to.

Senator Hume, withdraw. Senator Hume: I withdraw. The PRESIDENT: Thank you.

Minister Wong, please continue. Senator WONG: The opposition did go to the last election with higher taxes, and now they're complaining about a tax reform agenda which is ambitious and which will deliver real change for Australians.