Bob Carr (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

: The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows:

(1) No.

(a) N/A.

(b) (i) Yes, but analysis of the state of the Burmese extractive industries sector and the prospects for reform is required to inform these discussions. This work is currently under development. (ii) The Government has regular discussions with bilateral donors regarding programs in Burma. In the course of these discussions, some donors have raised the prospect of supporting reform in Burma's extractive industries sector.

(2) Yes.

(a) The agreement would establish the framework under which Australian aid projects are implemented. It would outline the responsibilities of both governments with respect to the aid program, including: how the governments would coordinate the aid program; aid program personnel; review and evaluation; and facilitating supplies and professional and technical material. It would specify the legal obligations of both governments relating to: tax exemptions; liability; intellectual property rights; security; and transportation costs.

(b) Not at this time.