Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Tourism) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

My question is addressed to the Deputy Prime Minister, and I refer to his previous answers. In his statement to the House today the Deputy Prime Minister said:

… basically, 'Mates don't pay for things when they're helping other mates out …

As a cabinet minister, the Deputy Prime Minister is in the privileged position of administering government agencies. How many times has the Deputy Prime Minister used taxpayers' money to help his mate out?

Mr Pyne interjecting—

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

No, that question's in order. No, the Deputy Prime Minister can—

Tim Watts (Gellibrand, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It is outrageous!

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

And the member for Gellibrand can leave under the 94(a).

The member for Gellibrand then left the chamber.

Barnaby Joyce (New England, National Party, Leader of the Nationals) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I thank the honourable member for Grayndler for his question. Obviously, the idea that at this point of time I could determine (a) who my mates are, (b) what payments have been made and (c) be able to deliver it now is absolutely and patently absurd.