Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development

The Hon. S.C. MULLIGHAN (Lee) (14:47): They haven't even heard the question yet, Mr Speaker. My question is to the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development. Why did the minister manage to meet with the Grapevine council in Texas before meeting with the mayors of Whyalla, Port Pirie and Port Augusta?

The Hon. A. Koutsantonis interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The member for West Torrens is on two warnings and continues to interject. The Minister for Primary Industries has the call.

The Hon. T.J. WHETSTONE (Chaffey—Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development) (14:48): Yes, while I was in Texas I met with the community groups—the RDA's equivalent—with the City of Grapevine. The reason I met with them was to look at how we were going to better develop our regions here in South Australia. You may smirk, old chicken lips—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order, members on my left!

The Hon. T.J. WHETSTONE: —but let me tell you something—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. T.J. WHETSTONE: —I have made requests to meet with all the mayors in South Australia.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. T.J. WHETSTONE: The three mayors of the Upper Spencer Gulf group were unable to meet. I have given them the opportunity, just like I have every mayor an opportunity, to meet, as has the Minister for Local Government. We are out in the regions meeting with mayors. We are out in the regions meeting with all the regional people—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. T.J. WHETSTONE: —groups. The reason, unbeknown for that stupid question, is: ask yourself why.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The member for West Torrens I again acknowledge is on two warnings and continues to interject; if he does it again, he will be departing the chamber.