2016-01-22
Senator Ludlam asked the Minister for Defence, in writing, on 20 November 2015: With reference to the United States recent indication that it will soon begin sending navy patrols near the artificial islands China has constructed in the South China Sea:
(1) Has the Department, the Minister or any other official been approached by US personnel in relation to Australian involvement in this type of mission.
(2) Has the Government or its officials been briefed on plans to patrol within the 12-mile nautical zone around any of the islands; if so, what officials have been involved in this briefing, and to whom.
(3) Has the Government been asked to prepare options for Australian involvement in the area; if so, which departments are involved in these preparations.
Answer SENATOR THE HON MARISE PAYNE - The answer to the Honourable Senator's question is as follows:
(1) No.
(2) No.
(3) No.