Murray-Darling Basin Royal Commission

Dr CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (14:23): My question again is to the Minister for Environment and Water. Has the minister met with Commissioner Walker and has he sought to amend the terms of reference for the Murray-Darling Basin Royal Commission?

The Hon. D.J. SPEIRS (Black—Minister for Environment and Water) (14:24): Again, I thank the member for her question. Yes, myself and the Attorney-General met with Commissioner Bret Walker several weeks ago. A broad discussion was had in relation to the very broad nature of the commissioner's terms of reference. At that point, the commissioner advised that he would be putting out issues papers, which would clarify his approach to particular terms of reference. That is the—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order, members on my left!

Mr Koutsantonis interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The member for West Torrens is called to order.

The Hon. D.J. SPEIRS: Really, when it comes to the terms of reference, we left it to the commissioner to interpret them, as a significant legal mind such as his is more than capable of doing so.

Mr Pederick: Just remember the $25,000 you blocked, Tom.

The SPEAKER: The member for Hammond is called to order. Deputy leader.