GRAIN HANDLING

The Hon. C.V. SCHAEFER (15:20): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the minister representing the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries a question about grain handling.

Leave granted.

The Hon. C.V. SCHAEFER: Last week the Minister for Agriculture was quoted in the press as having said, after the ABB (the sole handlers and shippers of grain out of this state) had said that the cost of shipping to farmers will rise due to the ban on GM crops in this state, that the benefits will far outweigh any costed disadvantages. Can he outline to the council what those benefits will be, either in market or in any other terms?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Police, Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning) (15:21): I will refer that question to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries in another place and bring back a reply.