CHILD PROTECTION

Mr MARSHALL (Norwood—Leader of the Opposition) (14:26): It certainly is, sir. Given that neither the minister, nor her office, nor anyone from the department has spoken with the family since before the minister's holiday, how can the minister claim that the family 'were very appreciative'?

The Hon. J.M. RANKINE (Wright—Minister for Education and Child Development, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (14:26): Apart from it being on the public record, as I understand—it was published in the newspaper—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. J.M. RANKINE: —as I understand, but I also understand that—

Ms Chapman: How would you know?

The SPEAKER: The deputy leader is warned a first time. Would the minister be seated. The leader should be aware that the standing order, or the practice of the house, is against asking ministers whether statements in the media are true; it does not prohibit our referring to reports in the media, otherwise, we would be somewhat crippled in our dialogue. Minister, you have the call.

The Hon. J.M. RANKINE: It was on the public record: it was in the newspaper. I am sure the paper hasn't misquoted the family. But, I understand that—and I am happy to correct myself if I am wrong, but I think there have been conversations with the family with the chief executive of the department. But, I am happy to correct that if I am wrong.

Mr Pisoni: No, you might as well correct it now: there hasn't been.

The SPEAKER: The member for Unley is warned for the second and final time. The leader.