Question Time

Renewal SA

Dr CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (14:10): My question is to the Acting Premier. Did ICAC commissioner, the Hon. Bruce Lander QC, authorise the Attorney-General to make a public statement on 27 September regarding an ICAC investigation into Renewal SA executives?

The Hon. V.A. CHAPMAN (Bragg—Deputy Premier, Attorney-General) (14:10): As the Acting Leader of the Opposition is well aware, I have made very clear my position on this matter, which was raised in this parliament last month and which we have made absolutely clear as to the government's position on this.

What I have to say is that it was scandalous behaviour by the member for West Torrens in the estimates committee during that week, but, nevertheless, in relation to the matter which is the direct subject of the question I confirm that I have received advice on this matter, I have read it, I am satisfied with it and I am confident—

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: Point of order.

The Hon. V.A. CHAPMAN: I am answering the question.

The SPEAKER: Would the Acting Premier please be seated for one moment. Point of order.

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: Relevance, sir. The question was whether she had received advice or whether she had received authorisation from the ICAC commissioner.

The SPEAKER: Permission, it is about permission. I have the point of order. I will allow the Acting Premier some scope. I believe at the moment the answer is in order, but I will listen attentively.

The Hon. V.A. CHAPMAN: I have read that advice, I have considered it, I have accepted it and I am satisfied that there has been no breach of the act or offence against it.

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: Point of order, sir.

The SPEAKER: I think the Acting Premier has finished her answer.