RACING INDUSTRY

The Hon. T.J. STEPHENS (15:03): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Leader of the Government, representing the Minister for Racing, a question about thoroughbred racing.

Leave granted.

The Hon. T.J. STEPHENS: In the latest state budget, regrettably we have seen the government withdraw funding for the promotion of thoroughbred racing in this state. The industry had expected to receive over $2 million from the state government in financial support over the next four years, but it has now disappeared in a move that has devastated an already struggling South Australian racing industry. My questions are:

1. Does the racing minister and this government acknowledge that this is the last thing a struggling racing industry needs at this time?

2. What will he do to reinstate these much needed funds?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy) (15:04): I will refer the honourable member's important question to the relevant minister in another place and bring back a reply.