Keogh Case

Mr KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens) (14:35): My question is to the Attorney-General. Did the Attorney receive any legal advice to the effect that the state was at minimal risk of a successful legal claim by Mr Keogh?

The Hon. V.A. CHAPMAN (Bragg—Deputy Premier, Attorney-General) (14:35): As indicated in this matter, there was advice obtained from the two senior counsel independent of the Attorney-General's Department or Crown law. In fact, they were senior counsel nominated by the former attorney's office. They are, I would agree of course, eminent counsel. Our government had no reason to doubt the very comprehensive report and advice that we received from them.

I think the member for Enfield would agree it was a very long advice. Certainly in my history with the law, it is the longest legal opinion I've ever read. I hope I never have to read another one that long, to be frank. Nevertheless, as you would expect, advice was obtained of these independent counsel in relation to this matter, the particulars of which were then considered. Advice was obtained further within the government to proceed with the negotiations to resolve this matter within the envelope of the applications that have been made and taking into account further correspondence presented by the former attorney-general and those representing the applicant.

Those are the matters. That is the process of what has occurred. Obviously, the particulars of that advice are privileged and I won't discuss it any further in relation to detail.