House debates Questions without Notice
Sinodinos, Senator Arthur
Bill Shorten Maribyrnong, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition
2:26 pm
My question is to the Prime Minister. I refer to Senator Sinodinos's statement to the Senate in February 2013 that he played no role in the awarding of the January 2012 contract to Australian Water Holdings by Sydney Water. Was the Prime Minister aware that Senator Sinodinos had in fact arranged for a letter from Premier O'Farrell to help secure the contract? When did the Prime Minister become aware of this?
Tony Abbott Warringah, Liberal Party, Prime Minister
2:27 pm
These are all matters that will quite properly be canvassed by the ICAC inquiry.
Mr Tony Burke Watson, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Finance
Madam Speaker, I rise on a point of order.
Mrs Bronwyn Bishop Speaker
He has finished his answer. Do you have a point of order?
Mr Tony Burke Watson, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Finance
Yes, under standing order 104(a), Madam Speaker.
Mr Tony Burke Watson, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Finance
Madam Speaker, it cannot be the case that the moment—
Mr Tony Burke Watson, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Finance
I am given the call, you then, instead of hearing the point of order, turn to the Prime Minister for advice.
Mrs Bronwyn Bishop Speaker
I point out to the Manager of Opposition Business that that is coming close to a reflection.
Mr Tony Burke Watson, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Finance
Well—
Mrs Bronwyn Bishop Speaker
Resume your seat! The member would also know that, under the standing orders, ministers are not obliged to answer questions.
Mr Burke interjecting—
No, they are not, as you well know. Merely because you do not get the answer you wish does not make it outside the standing orders.