Personal Explanation

McGowan, Dr C.

The Hon. V.A. CHAPMAN (Bragg—Deputy Premier, Attorney-General) (16:58): I seek leave to make a personal explanation.

Leave granted.

The Hon. V.A. CHAPMAN: In question time today I was asked a question as to the subsidy or payment to provide legal fees for Dr McGowan. I have paraphrased that question. I had understood that he was referring to an application for whether there was any right to have private legal costs, which is a matter in the purview of the Crown Solicitor's Office.

But in respect of the referred inquiry to be undertaken, I think by Ms Ranieri, I am advised to correct that; that is, the existing government policy does not deal with the reimbursement of legal fees associated with the type of independent inquiry being undertaken in relation to Dr McGowan. The question of reimbursement would be a matter for government. Dr McGowan would be entitled to make representations to government if and when he sees fit. To the best of my knowledge, no applications have been made.