David Norris (Independent)

I wish to make a brief comment on amendments Nos. 4 and 6. It is a continuation of the discussion between Senator Boyle and Senator Hannigan. As I understand what Senator Boyle said, there would be no need for this kind of offence to be punishable by fine or imprisonment in terms of the criminal classes because other legislation will come into play there. However, I do not believe he intended to imply that this would exist for military personnel under the command, for example, of an allied commander in Chad or wherever. There are two situations, one, the criminal situation which is addressed and two, the military situation which is not addressed but there is a tactical reason for this, in other words, that the Bill might have difficulty in passing or that it might be a step too far for our allies. I would be prepared to take that risk but I will not force it to a vote as it would not be my choice in any case. It is very important to continue this historic progress but we should do so knowing exactly what we are doing and not with a vague assumption that everything is as the House and all Members of the House wish because I do not think that is the case. It may very well be that my distinguished colleague, Senator Hannigan, will wish to speak to his colleagues in the Lower House and advise them of the situation to see whether they wish to table these amendments. It is very important that we assist in the passage of this legislation.