Senate debates

Wednesday, 15 August 2012

Questions on Notice

Employment and Workplace Relations (Question No. 1558)

Photo of Eric AbetzEric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations) Share this | | Hansard source

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, upon notice, on 17 February 2012:

With reference to comments made by the Minister on the Fairfax Radio Network on 13 February 2012 in relation to a meeting with Qantas:

(1) When was the Minister briefed by Qantas.

(2) Was the Minister aware that items discussed in the meeting may be commercial-in-confidence.

(3) Why did the Minister choose to release the information.

(4) Did the Minister seek the permission of Qantas prior to publically speaking on the matter.

(5) If permission was not obtained, is the Minister concerned about the message this may send to the business community concerning the Minister's management of market sensitive information.

Photo of Joe LudwigJoe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | | Hansard source

The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question:

The Minister and his Office communicate with representatives of Qantas on a regular basis.

The Minister treats information provided during discussions with all stakeholders appropriately.

There is nothing inappropriate about the Minister's comments on Fairfax Radio on 13 February 2012.