Opposition questions the Premier's responsibility regarding Gold Corporation's purchase of conflict gold from Papua New Guinea. The Premier deflects direct responsibility, citing Gold Corporation's autonomy and ongoing review of ethical guidelines.

AnsweredQoN 446Legislative Assembly
Asked
18 June 2020
Portfolio
Premier

QuestionView source ↗

GOLD CORPORATION —
CONFLICT GOLD — PAPUA NEW GUINEA
446. Mr
W.R. MARMION to the Premier:
Mr Speaker, I am an expert on
two-coat seals!
My question is to the Premier. Why
are there so many issues with Gold Corporation, for which the Premier has
direct ministerial responsibility, including the purchase of $200 million of
conflict gold from a convicted killer?

AnswerView source ↗

Gold Corporation is a government
trading enterprise. I do not make it, and have not made it, my business to get
involved in the commercial decisions that it makes. Gold is a very complex area
and we want capable people to be in charge. I have not interfered with or tried
to direct how Gold Corporation undertakes its business. Obviously, I recently
learnt through the press about the issues concerning Papua New Guinea and the
company through which Gold Corporation
purchased and processed some gold. Gold Corporation has some ethical guidelines
in place, but clearly those guidelines need to be reviewed. Gold
Corporation is now undertaking an independent review of these matters.

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