Shop Trading Hours

The Hon. F. PANGALLO (15:28): Well, actually, the Treasurer didn't answer the last question. Does the Treasurer intend to provide permits for shops to open on Easter Monday?

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer) (15:28): What I have indicated in relation to public holidays is that I will consider these issues on a case-by-case basis, as the former minister for industrial relations, John Rau, the then member for Enfield did on occasions. He used the powers that are open to him in the act to allow for exemptions under trading hours legislation. I did so in relation to Boxing Day; I didn't do so in relation to New Year's Day and Australia Day but I will consider each of those on a case-by-case basis and I will make judgements in relation to future public holidays in a similar way. I will have a look at the proposition, decide whether or not it makes sense to do so and then use the powers that are available to me within the act. At this stage I have made no final decision.