House debates

Wednesday, 17 June 2020

Questions without Notice

Donations to Political Parties

2:45 pm

Photo of Mark ButlerMark Butler (Hindmarsh, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy) Share this | | Hansard source

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?

Photo of Tony SmithTony Smith (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

The Leader of the House.

Photo of Christian PorterChristian Porter (Pearce, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | | Hansard source

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.

Photo of Tony SmithTony Smith (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

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.