Senator BIRMINGHAM (South Australia—Minister for Finance, Vice-President of the Executive Council and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:20): I thank Senator Thorpe for her question. I am aware of an investigation by the WA Police Force into a reported assault. I have heard media commentary along the lines of that which you have described, Senator Thorpe. Let me make very clear: if those facts are true, then, of course, they are to be completely and utterly condemned. They are shameful. All forms of hatred and division are unacceptable and should be condemned, and I have no doubt— The PRESIDENT: Senator Thorpe, on a point of order? Senator Thorpe: On relevance. My question is why hasn't the Prime Minister—the so-called leader of this country—said anything? The PRESIDENT: The minister has been speaking for 39 seconds. He was directly discussing the first part of the question, which I think is directly relevant. I have allowed you to restate the second part of the question, but I believe he is being directly relevant by addressing the facts you outlined for context to your question. Senator BIRMINGHAM: As I was mid-sentence saying, I have no doubt the Prime Minister would share my the condemnation, I am sure, of all fair-thinking Australians of the events. The PRESIDENT: Senator Thorpe, a supplementary question?