This motion doesn’t relate to a nation state. It doesn’t relate to foreign affairs matters at all. It relates to the funding of an organisation that has direct and tangible links and history with terrorism. It relates to the decision of the American government, in which they have withdrawn funding for this organisation because it is not committed to a peaceful solution.
Full motion
Senator Bernardi to move on 20 September 2018:
That the Senate—
(a) notes that:
(i) the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) began in 1964 operating as a terrorist organisation targeting Israeli civilians,
(ii) the PLO embarked upon the Second Intifada from 2000 to 2005, claiming 4000 lives – an uprising that started soon after the Camp David peace summit convened by then President of the United States (US) of America, Bill Clinton, and
(iii) US President Donald J Trump and his administration are closing the PLO Washington office due to a lack of progress in peace negotiations; and
(b) calls on the Foreign Minister to reflect upon the wisdom of Australian aid money going directly or indirectly to the PLO and its associated entities.
Full speech
Senator BERNARDI (South Australia) (16:06): I ask that general business notice of motion No. 1073 standing in my name for today, relating to the Palestinian Liberation Organization, be taken as a formal motion.
The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Is there any objection to this motion being taken as formal?
Senator Jacinta Collins: Yes.
The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: There is an objection.
Senator BERNARDI: In lieu of suspending the standing orders, I seek leave to make a brief statement for one minute.
The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Leave is granted for one minute.
Senator BERNARDI: To say I’m disappointed that formality has been denied under what has been explained to me as being a complex foreign affairs matter beggars belief. This motion doesn’t relate to a nation state. It doesn’t relate to foreign affairs matters at all. It relates to the funding of an organisation that has direct and tangible links and history with terrorism. It relates to the decision of the American government, in which they have withdrawn funding for this organisation because it is not committed to a peaceful solution. I understand that the objection from some in this chamber is because it would cause some difficulties with their own politics. But you cannot deny the factual nature of what has been presented. I would ask the Senate to once again reconsider and have the courage of your convictions. Vote against the truth if that’s what you want to do, but do not deny the truth from being spoken.