House debates

Wednesday, 24 June 2015

Questions without Notice

Minister for Foreign Affairs

2:59 pm

Photo of Tanya PlibersekTanya Plibersek (Sydney, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition) Share this | | Hansard source

My question is to the Minister for Foreign Affairs. Can the minister explain why, when the Attorney-General's Department and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet were discussing the need for the foreign minister to correct the record as early as 5.30 on 1 June, why it took until after question time had finished, when no further questions could be asked of her and broadcasting had ceased, for her to correct the record?

Photo of Mrs Bronwyn BishopMrs Bronwyn Bishop (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

I presume the honourable member for Sydney is asking the Minister for Foreign Affairs in her capacity as representing the Attorney-General? I will give her the call in that capacity. She might remember that next time.

3:00 pm

Photo of Ms Julie BishopMs Julie Bishop (Curtin, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | | Hansard source

It is quite clear that the caucus meeting was so volatile today that they forgot to prepare for question time! I refer to my previous answers.