Privatisation

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:36): Supplementary arising from the original answer in relation to privatisation: can the Treasurer explain why the head of his Department of Treasury refused to rule out the privatisation of building assets at Golden Grove High School?

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer) (14:36): It has nothing to do with the question of SA Water and the plans of the former Labor government.

The PRESIDENT: There's your answer.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Can we have some respect for the Hon. Mr Parnell, or are we going to insult the crossbench? Is there a further supplementary? Do you want a supplementary?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER: Well, yes, sir. Arising from the—

The PRESIDENT: I don't know, I can't read your mind. You were sitting down.

The Hon. K.J. MAHER: Further supplementary arising—

The PRESIDENT: The last one wasn't arising out of the original answer, since it had to do with water.

The Hon. K.J. MAHER: If that is your ruling, that it has to do with water and not privatisations, I won't ask it.

The PRESIDENT: If you want to, have a go.

The Hon. K.J. Maher: No, that's fine, Mr President.

The PRESIDENT: I might have been in a mind to allow it. Anyway, the Hon Mr Parnell.

The Hon. K.J. Maher: You ruled that it had to be about water.

The PRESIDENT: No, I did not.

The Hon. K.J. Maher: You said that.

The PRESIDENT: I am giving you guidance. If you don't want to take the guidance, it is a matter for you.