Member for Waite

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens) (14:38): My question is to the Premier. Does the Premier think it's appropriate that the member for Waite skips parliament and the scrutiny of the house and instead attends a Liberal Party function at a winery, attended by former prime minister Tony Abbott and John Olsen, former premier and current Liberal Party state president?

The Hon. S.K. KNOLL: Mr Speaker, this question also offends 97, but it also reflects on the attendance or not of a member of this place.

The SPEAKER: Yes, that is the case. I will let the member for West Torrens—

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: May I ask a point of clarification, sir?

The SPEAKER: Yes.

The Hon. S.K. Knoll interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Minister, be quiet.

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: The government has made public statements that the member for Waite is on parliamentary leave—

The SPEAKER: Yes.

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS: —so his absence is publicised by the house. So it is not offending that standing order.

The SPEAKER: I still believe that the question did offend standing order 97: a clear insertion of facts. I am giving you an opportunity to rephrase. Have another question; if not, I will move on.