Senator WEBSTER (Victoria) (Minister for Science and the Environment) - I thank Senator Wriedt for his brief remarks on these Bills. I am aware that, because the Senate is expected to rise shortly, Senator Wriedt did not speak at length on a matter which is of importance to the Opposition. It is important to the Government that these Bills, being tariff measures, be passed. Underlying the amendment which the Opposition has moved is the principle which indicates the difference in the attitude and approach between the Government and the Opposition in relation to resources. I suggest that a reading of the speeches that were made on these Bills in the House of Representatives will reveal the Opposition's proposals. Basically what we are seeing brought forward at this time in this amendment is the Labor Party's attitude in relation to a resources tax and resource development companies. It may be that in the next session an opportunity will be given for the Opposition to expand further its views on this sort of legislation.

The Government stands firm in its attitude. The Government does not agree with the proposition of imposing a secondary profits tax or what is referred to by the Opposition as a resources rent tax.

Amendment negatived.

Original question resolved in the affirmative.

Bills read a second time, and passed through their remaining stages without amendment or debate.