George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Xenophon, I acknowledge the point that you make. But we have been very clear that the future frigate build will be in Adelaide. Within the $89 million figure, of course, the largest single component is the Future Submarine Program. As you aware, that is the subject of a competitive evaluation process.

One thing about which there has been no doubt—notwithstanding the enthusiasm of Labor Party politicians to tell lies about this—is that our international partner, whichever of the bidders is selected after the competitive evaluation process, will partner with an Australian-based company. There will be a Defence white paper published in coming months. The more particular figures which you seek and the more particular breakdown which you seek will be found in the Defence white paper. (Time expired)