Woolworths

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:49): Supplementary arising from the original answer: to the Treasurer's knowledge, has any minister from the government actually talked to Woolworths about the impact this will have on workers?

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer) (14:50): Mr President, I can only speak on my behalf.

Members interjecting:

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS: The Hon. Ms Bourke has never been in government so let me assure her that I don't, on a regular basis, ring each of my 13 colleagues—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS: No, I don't—and say to them, 'Who have you spoken to today?' I responded to media queries yesterday. I have done so again this morning. As I have said in response to the leader's supplementary question just a little earlier, I am prepared to accept the assurances given by the company to the union, to the mayor and to the community. In the absence of evidence to the contrary, I am prepared to accept those assurances.