Senator BOURNE (12.31 p.m.) —I agree, and I think everybody here agrees, that the changes to cross-media rules are a very vital part of the communications debate in this country. Of course, the sooner we see it, the better. I have spoken to Senator McMullan about this matter. As usual, I have found him to be very reasonable and sensible in his approach. I know that he, too, would like to see this as a public document. Obviously, it has to be a public document; it has always had to be a public document. We have been calling for that forever. I do not see any reason why the ABA should be able to do things in secret when the ABT did not.

  I have spoken to a few people today. It is their opinion—and I must say it has influenced my thinking—that it would be a very sensible and reasonable move for everybody in the Australian community, including the ALP backbench, to be able to see the ABA report before cabinet makes a decision. They should at least have the opportunity to have some input into cabinet's decision. They should have the opportunity to see that report before cabinet makes its decision on how it will respond.

  I must apologise to Senator McMullan because I know this is not what I said to him on the phone. I must say that I found that argument really quite persuasive. I think it is a sensible one. I certainly want to see it as soon as possible. It is the case that yesterday I was prepared to wait until next week. Having heard that argument in particular, I find that it is a very good argument. The government backbench, as well as I, ought to be able to see this before cabinet makes a decision. I would like to see it as soon as possible and I will be voting for the motion.