Scott Ryan (Victoria, Liberal Party, Special Minister of State) Share this | Hansard source

Mr President, I refuse to accept the characterisation outlined by Senator Siewert, who is making an assumption about the particular article that I referred to in my first answer, when I said the government is not in a position to control what is printed in the newspaper. I know the Greens might wish it were the case, but this side of politics has constantly opposed it. I will not accept the characterisation put by Senator Siewert. I do not think she is actually interested in the facts here, other than a sledge at the minister. If I have any further information to bring back to the chamber, I will. I have no doubt that the department worked very effectively with the minister before he made his very comprehensive address to the National Press Club.