House debates Questions without Notice
Donations to Political Parties
Mark Butler Hindmarsh, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy
2:45 pm
My question is to the Prime Minister. I refer to evidence to the Independent Commission Against Corruption that the Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction was involved in laundering illegal donations through the Liberal Party front organisation known as the Free Enterprise Foundation. What action has the Prime Minister taken to investigate the minister's conduct?
Christian Porter Pearce, Liberal Party, Attorney-General
A very big turnaround from their views previously! But this clearly is a matter outside the ministerial responsibilities of the Prime Minister. It requires knowledge of donations, which is not inside the Prime Minister's responsibilities.
Tony Smith Speaker
I just say to the Leader of the House: there is a way that question could have been framed that would have made it closer to, if not in, order. But I think that, as it's—
Mr Burke interjecting—
Alright then. That'll be quicker. Let's go to the member for Bass.