Mr COX (1:15 PM) —I think it is extremely disappointing that the government has not accepted the opposition's amendments. The opposition's amendments would have the effect of limiting the parliamentary superannuation entitlements of higher office holders to that of a cabinet minister.

Mr Slipper —You're pleased we haven't.

Mr COX —I am not seeking a higher office. It will only affect the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister, the leaders in the Senate and the presiding officers, and it seems perfectly reasonable to try to bring their parliamentary superannuation entitlements into line with those of cabinet ministers as a demonstration of some restraint. It is certainly obvious that the government, having been forced into accepting the Labor Party's decision to terminate the old parliamentary superannuation scheme and replace it with a contributory scheme that is more along community lines, does not wish at this point or at any point to reduce any of the entitlements—as excessive as they may be—of long-serving, senior appointees of the parliament.