John Howard (Bennelong, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

I am not directly aware of that. I would not, in the normal course of events, have that information across my desk on a daily basis. I will talk to my colleague and, if there is anything that I can advise the House of, I would be very happy to do so. This is a serious matter and I have been asked a question about it. I know that the honourable member has a keen interest in these matters, and that is why he has asked me the question. We have taken this issue very seriously.

I do want to take this opportunity to congratulate the minister on the way he has handled a difficult issue. He understands the racing industry certainly better than I do and better than, I think, many, but not all, members. I think the member for O’Connor might know a little bit more about the racing industry than most, and he brings all the colour and flair of the racing industry to his contribution in parliament. Seriously, this equine flu outbreak is a very big challenge to a wonderful industry. I am delighted that the Australian government, the Commonwealth government, has been able to provide a very big package of help to the industry. There are many—

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