Senator FORSHAW (8:44 PM) —I indicate that the opposition does not see the need for the amendment. Accordingly, we will not support it. But, in saying that, I think that it needs to be put clearly on the record that we believe that there is a substantial opportunity for the public to be involved in the process. If nothing else, what has occurred in Western Australia in recent times demonstrates that that opportunity has been available.

We understand, of course, that governments or ministers may not necessarily always take notice of that public view. That is why we have sought to amend the legislation in the manner in which we have. Such things as the insertion of the objects clause, recognising the detailed national goals of the national forest policy statement, and, more particularly, our amendments to provide for a process of public and parliamentary scrutiny are the means by which public comment and public involvement can occur. Of course, ultimately, that can be taken up in this parliament in the manner that we have proposed. Consequently, we do not see the need for the particularly restrictive proposal from the Democrats.

Frankly, the debate has already been had. There has been a lot said about this whole issue. As I said earlier in an interjection, there has also been a lot of misinterpretation—in fact, a lot of deliberate misrepresentation—particularly by Senator Brown, of the position of the opposition; and the record will show what. We do not see the need for this amendment, particularly bearing in mind the amendments that we proposed, which have already been passed by the Senate and which we believe are adequate.