HICKS, MR D.

The Hon. R.D. LAWSON (14:50): I have a supplementary question. What was the cost of this operation to the South Australian taxpayer?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Police, Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning) (14:50): Police were on duty at the time, and certain police officers would have been assigned to this task, but I do not believe there would have been any additional cost to the taxpayer other than what would exist from ordinary police activities. However, had there been a media car chase and had an accident occurred then, of course, the cost may have been considerably greater. Our police get attacked for all sorts of things; they are expected to provide safety for the public, but when they do that we get members opposite being critical.

Members interjecting:

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY: Well, is the purpose of the South Australia Police to provide entertainment for the media or is their principal obligation to provide safety for the public of South Australia? I suggest it is the latter.