NUCLEAR WASTE STORAGE FACILITY

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Leader of the Opposition) (15:06): Does the Premier support the establishment of a uranium mine at Arkaroola?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Minister for Small Business) (15:06): Is the honourable member really seriously suggesting this is a supplementary question? In relation to Arkaroola the stance of this government is well known. The suspension at Arkaroola remains in place.

As I indicated in answer to a question from the Hon. Mark Parnell some time ago, the exploration licence at Arkaroola continues because Marathon Resources needs some authority in order to undertake the activities about which we have been talking; that is, the removal of this waste. The exploration licence remains in place. However, all drilling activities and any other exploration activities, other than that, are suspended indefinitely. That is the view of the government, including the Premier.