Senator BOB CARR (New South Wales—Minister for Foreign Affairs) (14:25): I think the world respects a nation that, despite the pressures of the economic situation, finds the money to increase its aid budget, as we have done. That commands respect. I think the value we get from our national reputation for the way we deliver aid and our focus on aid—aid effectiveness—stands Australia in enormously good stead. Opposition senators interjecting— Senator BOB CARR: By the way, there are some interjections on the other side of the House— The PRESIDENT: Ignore the interjections. Senator BOB CARR: It is useful, while ignoring them, to be stimulated by them and to find the opportunity to comment on the aid record of the coalition government. I know the House will be eager to hear this information. Their overseas aid budget never exceeded 0.3 per cent of gross national income. (Time expired)