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

I do not know that there was a question, but I am happy to address the issue on the assumption that there was an intention to ask a question. As Senator Ryan said, he raised the matter with me on 18 August, and he raised the possibility of a section 44 issue. Senator Ryan says in his statement: 'I explained the situation and the facts. Senator Brandis asked for further information to allow him to form a preliminary view.' Moving to the next part of the statement that refers to me, Senator Ryan says on the 23 August: 'I met with the Attorney-General regarding the matter. He recommended that advice be sought from the Australian Government Solicitor.'

On 24 August the Attorney-General's office advised that more information was required and that I should write to Senator Day requesting this. On 26 August, Senator Ryan says: 'I wrote to Senator Day, and on 29 August he responded. On the same day I received it, the response from Senator Day was forwarded to the Attorney-General's office—' (Time expired)