QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:10): First, I would make the point that, when it comes to these issues, I thought former senator Marise Payne expressed a view that was very sensible, very centrist and, I think, very ethical. She said: … in public life, we do have to be very careful about the way we express our opinions.

Most importantly, we have to exercise sensitivity and respect. And that is a key word, respect. Our view is that all people are entitled to respect, dignity and the opportunity to participate in society free from discrimination.

We are a government that has put women's equality at the heart of everything we do, supported by equal representation in our caucus and around the cabinet table. I would say to you, Senator, I think people do understand what it is you are trying to do— Senator Cash: Yes, protect the rights of women and girls— Senator WONG: I will take that interjection about protecting the rights of women and girls.

I'd welcome, for example, you condemning some of the comments made—I think, just in the last 24 hours—around consent in marriage, and that you don't need consent in marriage. I'd welcome that. I'd welcome you actually backing in some of the work we do in developing countries in relation to the rights of women and girls.

I'd welcome you, on the International Day of the Girl Child on 11 October, standing up and giving bipartisan support to development assistance so we can actually work to prevent child marriage and to provide girls with education. Then I might take you seriously, and we might take you seriously, and women and girls around this country might take you seriously when it comes to issues of equality and respect.

The PRESIDENT: Senator Cash, first supplementary. I remind you that, when I ask you to come to order, to come to order. I had to call you several times.