PAYROLL TAX

The Hon. I.F. EVANS (Davenport) (14:31): My question is to the Treasurer. Is the reason that the government is cutting the $30 million a year payroll tax rebate for apprentices and trainees so it can fund a replacement measure for the Public Service long service leave cuts, as announced in the 2010-11 budget, which were to save $30 million a year? The Treasurer told the house in February that the long service leave cuts matter would be dealt as part of this budget.

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Treasurer, Minister for Workers Rehabilitation, Minister for Defence Industries, Minister for Veterans' Affairs) (14:32): I am not going to engage in any speculation about what may or may not be in Thursday's budget.

The SPEAKER: The member for Reynell.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. I.F. Evans: You will announce it to The Australian, but you won't tell the house.

The SPEAKER: Order! The member for Davenport, order! Member for Reynell.