Richard Colbeck Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Health
2:13 pm
My question is to the Minister representing the Treasurer, Senator Conroy. Given the government initially indicated that the Senate would this fortnight consider legislation to validate the government’s $3.1 billion midnight RTD tax grab, which came into operation in April, will the minister confirm whether drafting instructions have been issued for this legislation and when the validating legislation will be introduced into the parliament?
Stephen Conroy Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
I am happy to seek that information and make sure that I have the exact answer for you. I will get back to you as soon as possible.
Eric Abetz Tasmania, Liberal Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate
But I thought we were delaying these things!
Richard Colbeck Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Health
Mr President, I ask a supplementary question. I do note my colleague’s comments that we were allegedly delaying legislation from the government. Has the government sought or received legal advice on its position should the Senate not validate the excise notice for this new tax, which took effect on 27 April?
Stephen Conroy Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
I am happy to again get the exact answer from the minister and get back to you as soon as possible.