Australian Craniofacial Unit

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:26): Finally, Mr President, the part of the original question—there were a number of them. A supplementary question in relation—

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order! Government benches will be in order! I can't hear the Leader of the Opposition.

The Hon. K.J. MAHER: Who from government told Professor David David about this internal or, as the minister calls it, independent review occurring?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (14:27): As I have already told the chamber, I met with Professor David on 9 July. I asked for briefings as a result of requests.

The Hon. K.J. Maher interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Leader of the Opposition, let the minister answer your question.

The Hon. K.J. Maher: He hasn't come close to answering anything else.

The PRESIDENT: I don't need your commentary. I need to listen to the minister.

The Hon. S.G. WADE: Following the meeting of 9 July—

The Hon. K.J. Maher: Did you tell him on the 9^th or did you keep it secret?

The PRESIDENT: Leader of the Opposition, you are trying my patience today. I can't hear the minister.

The Hon. S.G. WADE: Following the meeting of 9 July, at which Professor David raised a significant range of concerns, I sought briefings and an independent review was initiated. I would have thought that Professor David would be surprised if I didn't follow up his concerns.

The Hon. K.J. Maher: With respect—

The PRESIDENT: No, with respect, Leader of the Opposition, you said it was the final.

The Hon. K.J. Maher interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: No, you said it was the final supplementary. I take you at your word. Sit down. The Hon. Ms Scriven.