Richard Marles (Corio, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Defence) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

My question is to the Minister for Defence Industry. The contract for Australia's Collins class submarines includes a requirement for 70 per cent local content, which was ultimately exceeded. This government asserted to Australian workers that 90 per cent of the Future Submarines contract would be local content. So why on earth is there no binding percentage requirement for local content in the government's contract for the Future Submarines?

Melissa Price (Durack, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence Industry) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

We are delivering a sovereign defence capability. As I said in my last answer, mandating a minimum portion to Australian industry, particularly at this time, during the design phase, would be counterproductive.

Dr Chalmers interjecting—

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The member for Rankin!

Melissa Price (Durack, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence Industry) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

We won't be lectured by those opposite.

Dr Chalmers interjecting—

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The member for Rankin is warned!

Melissa Price (Durack, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence Industry) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'd like to know how many submarines those opposite were considering building. I think it's zero.