Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate take note of the explanation.

I appreciate the position that Senator Ryan is in; however, this question was due to be answered in January of this year. A month after the answer was due, as a matter of courtesy, we contacted his office to indicate we would be seeking an explanation and sent a copy of the relevant question. We were informed at the time that the answer in question was on the relevant minister's desk. Anticipating that the answer would be forthcoming in good faith, I did not seek an explanation that day. Notwithstanding that it is one month ago, we are still waiting for the answer. I think significant courtesy has been shown by the opposition. I would ask the minister if he could please ensure that his counterpart provides him with the answer forthwith.

Question agreed to.