Alex White (Labour)

I was going to address the last issue later as it is perhaps a bit more relevant to other sections but as the point has been again made by Senator Norris, I will address it.

In the context of dealing with defamation law, the fact that the newspaper industry has pressed for change and some of the changes included in this Bill may be welcomed by the industry does not of itself suggest we should oppose them. If I have a view on a matter, the fact that somebody else, whom I dislike or even detest, holds the same view does not undermine the strength of my opinion.

Senator Norris is going a little over the top or is at least missing the point when we talk about freedom of expression and freedom of the press. This is not just something going to the pockets of the press barons. It may, of course, because it suits them. I am more interested in access of the public to the maximum amount of information, free comment and debate in a modern democratic society. The fact that the newspaper industry is also on that side of the argument should not push us off our perch. With respect, Senator Norris is confusing two different things.