Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

It is only Wednesday but already the tactics committee has given up. Someone at the tactics committee this morning said: 'We are short of questions—but there was that newspaper report three months ago. Let's ask about that. Let's get with the game.'

This government has been more open than any earlier governments. FOI legislation has opened up a whole range of opportunities for public accountability. In between this press report and today's question, Senate estimates met for two weeks of hearings, two weeks during which Senator Ryan and his colleagues, if they were really interested, could have gone up hill and down dale with questions about the caucus support unit. I welcome you taking up that opportunity, Senator Ryan; you would be doing your job if you did. But you are more interested in your own internal party politics. Accountability is available. A range of mechanisms are available. But, if there is anything I can help the senator with, I will take it on notice and get back to him.