Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

In response to that question from Senator Milne, I say that of course the government remains committed and at the forefront of ensuring that we continue research and development within the health and hospital area. I will seek further and better information from the Minister for Health and Ageing to provide a response to the specifics of that question, but bear in mind that this government does spend significant amounts in the area of health and hospital reform. The government does continue to ensure the health of the Australian population, and it does continue to ensure that research and development within the health and hospital area is maintained. For example, we have recently made significant announcements to ensure mental health issues are being addressed. In terms of dealing with broad responses around emergencies such as the H1N1 virus—swine influenza—I am sure those people here in the chamber would be— (Time expired)