TOURISM COMMISSION

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (14:29): I have a supplementary question arising out of the answer. What advice has been provided to the minister as to which legal firm or which legal adviser has been appointed by the South Australian Tourism Commission, and is there a cap or limit? Given that the minister has advised $145,000, is there a cap or limit on the total legal costs?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Minister for Forests, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Status of Women) (14:29): Who the South Australian Tourism Commission hires or seeks to obtain advice from, the consultants that it uses and the way it operates commercially are decisions that are completely independent of government. They are an independent statutory authority that operates in a commercial way.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. G.E. GAGO: As I have indicated, the terms of that approval, including the hourly rate that may be charged, were, in fact, consistent with the Crown Solicitor's advice.

An honourable member: Who's been appointed?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO: I don't know who was appointed. It would be a reputable legal firm. My understanding is, as I reported in this place before, that the Crown investigation has been completed so, in respect of that matter, my understanding is there would not be any further legal advice required. So, in respect of that matter that I have spoken of in this place, my understanding is that has been completed, but I am happy to check that and, if need be, bring back any further matters that might be relevant to that.