ATTORNEY-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (14:36): I have supplementary questions:

1. Has the minister had any representations from industry on this particular issue and, if so, what were they?

2. Does she accept that the amalgamations will ultimately lead to a diminution of licensing?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Public Sector Management, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises) (14:36): I thank the honourable member for her questions. In terms of responding to the latter, no is the simple answer—no! I have just outlined the benefits that will be gained from the streamlining of services and the very structured way that we are going about making changes.

In relation to the representations, to the best of my knowledge I do not believe that I have received any delegations or representations in relation to the issues. I may have received correspondence from the HIA, but I will need to double-check that; there may be some correspondence on file. However, I can certainly reassure the honourable member that my office has not been overwhelmed by issues of concern raised by the industry. We have not been overwhelmed and, as I said, to the best of my knowledge I have not received any delegations.

To the best of my knowledge, I believe that I have only seen or am aware of one piece of correspondence. I think the honourable member is scaremongering. It is early days yet. The changes have only just started to be put in place and consultation with staff commenced, so it is early days yet. As I said, my office has not been overwhelmed by concerns or problems raised by industry, certainly to this point. Obviously, that is something that I will continue to monitor, and I am happy to keep the chamber informed.