Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

Well, I will take on notice the questions the senator asks and seek replies. But, as I said, as I understand it both the Prime Minister and Minister Garrett have answered questions in the House of Representatives regarding these matters. And Senator Arbib has been questioned about these matters in the Senate. Obviously, if the opposition are interested in Senator Arbib’s knowledge of these matters, not only have they previously taken them up but they have the opportunity to take them up today with him. That is what question time is about. I do not quite understand why Senator Abetz would ask me what knowledge Senator Arbib had about matters.

Clearly, this is a cunning tactic from the tactics committee that escapes me! In any event, I am happy to take on notice the question that Senator Abetz asks. As I said, I think those answers have already been given in the House of Representatives and the Senate, but I will certainly take them on notice.