Jan McLucas (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers) Share this | Hansard source

There were quite a number of questions there and I will try to assist you where I can. In relation to a question you asked earlier around funding for this hypothetical litigation, I can advise the chamber that no funding has been specifically provided for potential litigation costs. Regarding your question that went to the level of confidence that the government has of its strong legal position, I will quote from Minister Roxon's press conference today, where she said: 'I am very happy to say to the public that we are well prepared. I think we are on very strong legal ground. We won't be bullied by tobacco companies threatening litigation and we are prepared to fight them if they do in fact take that step.' That is very clear.

I also refer to your slurring in some respects of Minister Roxon. Minister Roxon has explained very clearly, and I think most people would have picked this up: 'I have already explained that the letters in 2005 were clearly a mistake. The facts are'—

Senator Cash interjecting—

You do not make mistakes? You have never made a mistake, Senator Cash?