"It is, and long has been my opinion, and I have heard honourable members in this House declare it to be theirs - that it is the duty of Parliament equally to protect all the different interests in the country"

This quote by Joseph Hume speaks to the significance of Parliament in protecting the interests of all people in a nation. Hume is revealing his opinion that it is the duty of Parliament to ensure that all interests are represented and protected. He likewise notes that other members of Parliament share this viewpoint. This quote highlights the importance of having a representative federal government that is able to protect the interests of all people, no matter their background or beliefs. It is a suggestion that the government should be a fair and impartial arbiter of justice, which all citizens should be able to trust that their interests will be taken into account. This quote is a reminder of the importance of having a federal government that is able to represent and safeguard the interests of all people.