Senator CARR(9.38 a.m.) —by leave—It is of concern to me to hear Senator Campbell indicate that we should not be surprised.

Senator Ian Campbell —I didn't say that. I said that Senator O'Brien would not be surprised.

Senator CARR —Perhaps Senator O'Brien might or might not be surprised by Senator Alston's actions in this regard. It is nonetheless of concern to me that the Manager of Government Business in this chamber should suggest that the government is seeking to defy an order of the Senate. I think the Senate is entitled to an explanation, and in what has been said this morning I have heard not one word about the government's willingness to come in here and explain to the Senate why it is defying an order of the Senate. All I have heard is that Senator O'Brien might get a phone call. The government has an obligation to explain to the Senate why it is in defiance of an order of the Senate, and I think we are entitled to that explanation at 12 o'clock. In that way the Senate can determine what action it takes.