Opened the debate
Pocock argued that the government's answer provided limited information regarding the maritime industry. Pocock highlighted an ethical concern regarding Carnival Cruise Lines, which operates in Australia but pays taxes in the United Kingdom under a bilateral agreement. The senator questioned whether the tourism revenue generated by the company justified allowing crew members to be paid as little as $2.50 an hour. Pocock expressed disagreement with this wage level for workers operating in Australian waters and sought further clarification from the government.