Peter Whish-Wilson (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

[by video link] Minister, going back to that first principles review by a panel of experts, much of which has been incorporated in the legislation today, are you aware of concerns that the panel's mandate prioritised costs to industry over the environment?

There were questions raised over its chair, Ken Matthews. I and others asked questions about this in Senate estimates, and Mr Matthews has publicly acknowledged concerns about potential conflicts of interest. He was recently the chair of the Agricultural Biotechnology Council of Australia, whose members include some of the biggest producers, importers and users of pesticides. They include CropLife Australia, AusBiotech and the National Farmers Federation. He acknowledged that environment groups were cranky about his appointment, but, in fairness, he said he didn't believe the industry was pleased with this report.

What assurances can you give us that this panel, given Mr Littleproud's record in relation to the panel of review, will be independent of industry?