Tasting Australia

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:50): A supplementary question: how much did this year's event cost in total? I'm sure the minister has an answer, given that he was asked a similar question yesterday—or are his staff having a laugh at his expense?

The PRESIDENT: No; we don't need the extra commentary, Leader of the Opposition. The supplementary was fine; the additional commentary was not fine.

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment) (14:50): Perhaps the member should get a hearing test, because yesterday—

The PRESIDENT: Do not debate the question and insert an insult. Answer the question, minister.

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY: The final bills are not in for the event because, of course, it finished only two weeks ago. Yesterday, when I was asked a question, it was about the Australian Tourism Exchange, not Tasting Australia.

The Hon. K.J. Maher: What was the budget for this one?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY: I don't have the budget figures, but you asked me a question about the cost.

The Hon. K.J. Maher interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Leader of the Opposition, do not bait the minister. Restrain yourself. Minister.

The Hon. K.J. Maher interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Leader of the Opposition, pay attention. Stop baiting the minister. Minister.

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY: I will bring back any information I am able to in relation to the final costs when they are available.

The PRESIDENT: Okay. I think we have explored that issue.