Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Defence Materiel) Share this | Hansard source

I have referred the reports that I have received to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission for a full and thorough investigation. Let me make this very clear: this is not a rehash of the 2008 process. As Chairman Rod Sims pointed out just last week, the issues on the table today have only come to light in the past six to nine months. We have seen an escalation in the amount of pressure being mounted on our suppliers. There are opportunities now for suppliers to speak up. We require their assistance in making sure that evidence of their claims is produced. Mr Sims has nominated this matter as a question of priority for this year. He has urged suppliers to bring their concerns forward now. I back that call on behalf of the government. The ACCC can protect whistleblowers. It can investigate and report on these matters in a way that does not compromise individuals. (Time expired)