There are significantly greater medical resources in the sovereign nation of Nauru than on Christmas Island, and Port Moresby is home to the private Pacific International Hospital.

But that hasn't stopped Bill Shorten. After the reaction to his border-weakening deal with Dr Phelps, Shorten's now "fine" with flying detainees to Christmas Island for treatment.

So what was the point of the legislation in the first place Bill?

Flip-flop - do anything, say anything to get into power.

No conscience, no integrity and no soul.