❓ Opposition Leader Barnett questions Treasurer Ripper about Brian Burke's involvement in payroll tax concession decisions. Ripper denies direct involvement, citing advice from Treasury and representations from other organisations. Heated exchange ensues, with accusations of untruthfulness and breaches of parliamentary protocol.
AnsweredQoN 549Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
I have a supplementary question. Can the Treasurer give a categorical guarantee to this House that former Premier Brian Burke had no direct involvement in the decision to grant concessions for payroll tax that had already been assessed? Mr E.S. RIPPER
AnswerView source ↗
As I have already advised the House, the Government acted in response to representations from the Leader of the Opposition’s old organisation, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and from CPA Australia. In the course of that meeting, Mr Burke put forward some views for people that he represented, but the decision was made by the Government on the basis of Department of Treasury and Finance advice following - Mr C.J. Barnett: You just contradicted yourself. Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: As I have already advised the House, the Government acted in response to representations from the Leader of the Opposition’s old organisation, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and from CPA Australia. In the course of that meeting, Mr Burke put forward some views for people that he represented, but the decision was made by the Government on the basis of Department of Treasury and Finance advice following - Mr C.J. Barnett: You just contradicted yourself. Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
As I have already advised the House, the Government acted in response to representations from the Leader of the Opposition’s old organisation, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and from CPA Australia. In the course of that meeting, Mr Burke put forward some views for people that he represented, but the decision was made by the Government on the basis of Department of Treasury and Finance advice following - Mr C.J. Barnett: You just contradicted yourself. Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You just contradicted yourself. Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: As I have already advised the House, the Government acted in response to representations from the Leader of the Opposition’s old organisation, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and from CPA Australia. In the course of that meeting, Mr Burke put forward some views for people that he represented, but the decision was made by the Government on the basis of Department of Treasury and Finance advice following - Mr C.J. Barnett: You just contradicted yourself. Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
As I have already advised the House, the Government acted in response to representations from the Leader of the Opposition’s old organisation, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and from CPA Australia. In the course of that meeting, Mr Burke put forward some views for people that he represented, but the decision was made by the Government on the basis of Department of Treasury and Finance advice following - Mr C.J. Barnett: You just contradicted yourself. Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett: You just contradicted yourself. Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: No; the Leader of the Opposition was not listening. He asked, “Did the Treasurer’s chief of staff play any role in the preparation of the cabinet minute that ultimately led to provision of tax relief to a number of WA companies?” I have spoken to both my chief of staff and the Under Treasurer, and the answer to that question is no. Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett: And Brian Burke met with him. Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition also asked me, “On what basis was Brian Burke granted a meeting with the Treasurer’s chief of staff to discuss this matter?”, and the answer was that the meeting was not granted to discuss this matter. It was granted to hear the views on electricity reform of the energy unions Mr Grill and Mr Burke purported to represent. That is the answer. The Government’s decision, as I have said on many occasions, was made following Department of Treasury and Finance advice and in response to representations from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPA Australia. Moreover, it was a decision supported by the Leader of the Opposition and described as a victory for business. Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
The SPEAKER: I call the Leader of the Opposition to order for the second time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: Now that I have given details about the meetings my office was involved in, perhaps the Leader of the Opposition will inform the House whether he met with Mr Grill, and, if so, on what basis? Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett: I want you to tell the truth. Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
Mr C.J. Barnett interjected. THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
THE SPEAKER: Leader of the Opposition! Point of Order Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition has just stated that I am not telling the truth to Parliament. I take serious objection to that statement. I regard this as a matter of utmost importance, and I strongly object to any suggestion that I would not tell the truth to this Chamber. The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
The SPEAKER: On a number occasions members have accused each other of not telling the truth. I did not hear what the Leader of the Opposition said. Parliament has certain traditions and customs that are not in the standing orders, some of which have been abused over the past few weeks. Reference has been made to people who are not members of this Chamber and to conversations that have taken place outside this Chamber and in the corridors of Parliament House. Members who abuse those rules do so at their own peril. This House must run effectively, but it will not do so if members break the rules. If the Leader of the Opposition’s words implied that the Treasurer was not telling the truth, I ask him to withdraw his comments. If he did not use such words, I suggest that he and the Treasurer determine what was said at a later time.
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