Ambulance Services

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:39): A supplementary arising from the original answer: does the minister really expect anyone to believe that it is a decision of a particular health network and not his decision to make this change, and does he still hold, as he was quoted there, that he is not accountable for what goes on in his own portfolio?

The PRESIDENT: The first part of the question was appropriate arising out of the original answer. The second part of the question is out of order.

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (14:39): What was the first bit?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER: You said it was the local health network's decision to do this. It is nothing to do with you. Hands off, is it?

The Hon. S.G. WADE: I take the honourable member's point. I certainly made all of the budget proposals that went forward to the Treasurer and I will be held accountable for them. That is why I am addressing the house now.

The PRESIDENT: Do you have a supplementary, the Hon. Ms Bourke?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE: Yes.

The PRESIDENT: Then I'll come to you, the Hon. Ms Franks.