McGowan, Dr C.

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (15:00): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before directing a question to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing.

The PRESIDENT: In relation to what?

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER: In relation to his chief executive.

Leave granted.

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER: The minister said today that questions relating to his chief executive, Dr McGowan, are matters for the Premier. Minister, if that is the case, how is it, then, that the Premier wasn't aware how Dr McGowan was appointed? How is it that the Premier didn't know that Dr McGowan was appointed without the position being advertised? Did the minister, who says he is not responsible for his chief executive, recommend Dr McGowan's appointment to the Premier and, if so, why didn't he advise the Premier that the position was not advertised?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (15:01): I can assure you that the contract with Dr McGowan, as with all chief executives in this government, is with the Premier.