Jill Hall (Shortland, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you. As I was saying, the Therapeutic Goods Amendment Bill (No. 3) 2006 does look at certification by audit of overseas medicine manufacturers. When we look at the certification of overseas medicines manufacturers, it also brings to mind the fact that some of these overseas medicine manufacturers are engaged in the practice of providing medical practitioners with rewards for prescribing their medication. I believe that is something the government needs to address as a matter of urgency and that it needs to be much more transparent. It is in the interests of all Australians if the government goes down that track.

Another issue this legislation deals with is blood products. It allows manufacturers of blood and tissues to apply for manufacturing licences electronically. That brings me to an issue I am very concerned about. The government is undermining what I believe is the safest blood supply system in the world. We have a number of blood donors. I am a blood donor. I understand that the member for Capricornia is also a donor.

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