The minister has sought the call on indulgence to clear up an issue. I am going to grant indulgence to the minister.

I rise to correct, and apologise unreservedly for, remarks I made last night at the Minerals Council of Australia official dinner held in the Great Hall. Acting on what I thought was reliable advice, I made the incorrect statement that the former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela had passed away. I wish to apologise for the error, and I have conveyed my apologies directly to the South African high commissioner and to the Minerals Council of Australia.