❓ Question regarding potential ministerial influence on the Independent Gas Pipelines Access Regulator's decision on the Dampier to Bunbury natural gas pipeline access arrangement. The Minister denies any undue influence, emphasizing the regulator's independence and criticising the opposition's past actions.
AnsweredQoN 673Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to the minister’s comments as reported in Hansard of 9 April 2003 that - The Government will act according to the law. The law of this State states that the Independent Gas Pipelines Access Regulator is independent of ministerial direction in the performance of his function. Has the minister, or any of his ministerial staff, been briefed or advised in any manner on the deliberations of the gas access regulator by Dr Ken Michael, his staff or associated consultants, or lawyers on the proposed access arrangement of the Dampier to Bunbury natural gas pipeline? Mr E.S. RIPPER
AnswerView source ↗
The law does indeed say that the gas access regulator is independent of ministerial direction in the performance of that function. That is the black and white law of this State, which was passed by this Parliament when the current Leader of the Opposition was then the Minister for Energy. I have stood by that law and I have resisted suggestions from the Leader of the Opposition and the member for Ningaloo that I should in some way intervene and contradict that law. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The law does indeed say that the gas access regulator is independent of ministerial direction in the performance of that function. That is the black and white law of this State, which was passed by this Parliament when the current Leader of the Opposition was then the Minister for Energy. I have stood by that law and I have resisted suggestions from the Leader of the Opposition and the member for Ningaloo that I should in some way intervene and contradict that law. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
The law does indeed say that the gas access regulator is independent of ministerial direction in the performance of that function. That is the black and white law of this State, which was passed by this Parliament when the current Leader of the Opposition was then the Minister for Energy. I have stood by that law and I have resisted suggestions from the Leader of the Opposition and the member for Ningaloo that I should in some way intervene and contradict that law. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The law does indeed say that the gas access regulator is independent of ministerial direction in the performance of that function. That is the black and white law of this State, which was passed by this Parliament when the current Leader of the Opposition was then the Minister for Energy. I have stood by that law and I have resisted suggestions from the Leader of the Opposition and the member for Ningaloo that I should in some way intervene and contradict that law. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
The law does indeed say that the gas access regulator is independent of ministerial direction in the performance of that function. That is the black and white law of this State, which was passed by this Parliament when the current Leader of the Opposition was then the Minister for Energy. I have stood by that law and I have resisted suggestions from the Leader of the Opposition and the member for Ningaloo that I should in some way intervene and contradict that law. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
The SPEAKER: Members! Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: It is remarkable to note the way in which members deal with independent regulation at a state level compared with the way in which they deal with independent regulation at a federal level. No-one would suggest that Peter Costello should direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on an access decision that the ACCC must make. However, somehow or other, when it comes to regulation at a state level, some members on the other side of politics appear to suggest that the State Government should somehow break the law, go around the law or do something to influence the regulator. We will not be part of that. The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
The Leader of the National Party asked whether the regulator had briefed me. No, the regulator has not briefed me. He asked whether my staff had been given any information by the regulator. Mr Speaker, like other people, I am interested to know when the regulator’s decision will be brought down. We have certainly made inquiries of the regulator about that matter but we are not involved in discussions with the regulator about how he should go about the regulation process; that is his prerogative under the law. Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Two and a half years! Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Does the Leader of the Opposition - the Windimurra man - think we should roll up our sleeves and intervene, as he did at Windimurra? Is that what he thinks we should do? Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Get on with the job. Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: How should we do that? Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You roll up your sleeves and do things for the State. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: I am offering to tell you how to do it. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Should we issue a direction to the regulator? Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You might actually think of that as an option. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: I think the Leader of the Opposition had better read the law of the State. Does he think I should have a quiet meeting with the regulator and whisper in his ear, “Look, it would really suit the Government if you made that decision”? Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You take responsibility as a minister. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: I take responsibility? Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Absolutely. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: What does that mean operation-wise? Will the Windimurra man tell me how he would do it? Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr C.J. Barnett: I tell you what: if you ever go out in the desert past Mt Magnet you will see the most sophisticated, highest technology, value-added project in this State. You will see a 110-gauge gas pipeline taking gas to an area that has seen no development for 100 years. It will be the leading vanadium project in the world. Mr Speaker, I rolled up my sleeves and made it happen. Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: When the Leader of the Opposition reads the budget papers tomorrow, he will see an $800 000 per annum payment from the Government to Western Power to service a $14 million loan on a pipeline that is now valued at $9.7 million. That is one of Windimurra man’s contributions to tomorrow’s budget outcomes. With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
With regard to the regulator, I have said that the regulator is independent of direction or influence by the Government, apart from the Government’s submission, which is on the public record. The regulator has not briefed me. My office has inquired about the timing of the decision.
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