Electricity Generation

Mr VAN HOLST PELLEKAAN (Stuart) (14:38): Given that the minister said that the government would not be operating the generators because the government does not have those skills, why has the minister told this parliament, and the media and the public, numerous times that the government would be the operator of the gas-fired generator?

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens—Treasurer, Minister for Finance, Minister for State Development, Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy) (14:38): I think that's probably the most embarrassing question the shadow minister has asked me. The idea that government ministers will be at the power plant running the operation—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: Of course, we are going to contract with professionals to run this.

An honourable member interjecting:

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: Yes, exactly. On that logic, we don't build roads. On that logic, we don't build hospitals. On that logic, we don't build schools. What a ridiculous assertion, which is the high farce we have now from the opposition. They are keeping their alternative energy policy secret, then attempt to mock ours. Why don't we have debate? Let's debate them.

Mr VAN HOLST PELLEKAAN: Point of order, sir: I ask you to bring the Treasurer back to—

The SPEAKER: Is the Treasurer finished?

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Member for Stuart.