CHILD PROTECTION INQUIRY

Ms CHAPMAN (Bragg—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (14:48): When then did the Premier become aware that his office asked to make representations to the Parole Board in relation to the sexual assault case?

The Hon. J.W. WEATHERILL (Cheltenham—Premier, Treasurer, Minister for State Development, Minister for the Public Sector, Minister for the Arts) (14:48): You see, this is what the member for Bragg does: she asks a question that presumes the answer in a particular way. There was never any intention for myself or the government to make a representation to the Parole Board. What was sought from the Attorney-General's Department was some advice about how one might make a representation to the Parole Board, because it was anticipated that that would be a question that may be asked of ministers, and so—

Mr Marshall: Did you ask Simon Blewett to make an inquiry?

The Hon. J.W. WEATHERILL: I have just answered that question. This is the ordinary process of advisers gathering material so that ministers and cabinet can then be in a position to answer questions that they anticipate may be asked about a notorious matter.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Look, I'm a bit weary of the Tim and Debbie dialogue on my left, and I warn the member for Hammond for the second time. The member for Mitchell.