Tourism Budget

The Hon. J.E. HANSON (15:12): Supplementary: the minister spoke about the winter campaign in particular. I understand that a certain amount of money, I think a couple of million dollars, is to be spent on that. Can he clarify the amount that is being spent and if this campaign is funded by a new budget commitment, or if this is from existing funding?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment) (15:13): I can confirm that it is $3 million for the winter campaign, and it is funded from the Economic and Business Growth Fund, because it is funding or promoting a sector—it is called the tourism sector. We have 18,000 businesses, 36,000—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY: They just can't help themselves, Mr President—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY: You just can't handle good news. I haven't finished my answer—

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: I am just waiting for those on my left. This is your question time and I am sure the Hon. Mr Hanson would like to hear the answer, so I will give the Hon. Mr Ridgway an opportunity just to finish the answer.

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY: I think I have given them enough information: $3 million in economic business growth and supporting our regional tourism sector.