❓ Opposition Leader Barnett questions Premier Gallop about Brian Burke's alleged influence on a government decision regarding the Western Australian Trotting Association. Gallop denies Burke's involvement and defends the government's decision-making process.
AnsweredQoN 496Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
I remind the Premier of his comments on the lobbying activities of former Labor Premier, Brian Burke, and that his best advice to Mr Burke was to get on with his life, to stay out of the political process and that he was not welcome in that process. (1) Does the Premier believe it proper, as revealed in The Australian Financial Review and The West Australian , that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision - Dr G.I. Gallop: Come on! Mr C.J. BARNETT: The Premier can answer that. Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP
AnswerView source ↗
(1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(1) Does the Premier believe it proper, as revealed in The Australian Financial Review and The West Australian , that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision - Dr G.I. Gallop: Come on! Mr C.J. BARNETT: The Premier can answer that. Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Dr G.I. Gallop: Come on! Mr C.J. BARNETT: The Premier can answer that. Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Mr C.J. BARNETT: The Premier can answer that. Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works.
The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(1) Does the Premier believe it proper, as revealed in The Australian Financial Review and The West Australian , that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision - Dr G.I. Gallop: Come on! Mr C.J. BARNETT: The Premier can answer that. Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Dr G.I. Gallop: Come on! Mr C.J. BARNETT: The Premier can answer that. Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Mr C.J. BARNETT: The Premier can answer that. Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Does the Premier believe it proper that Mr Burke played a direct role in the Government’s decision to increase the representation of the Western Australian Trotting Association on the proposed new Racing and Wagering Western Australia board? (2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(2) Was the Premier aware at the time Cabinet considered the matter that Mr Burke stood to benefit from the Government’s decision through a substantial success fee? (3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(3) Has the Premier been made aware of any meetings between Mr Burke and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, or any other ministers or senior ministerial staff, about matters directly related to their portfolios? Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Dr G.I. GALLOP replied: (1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
(1)-(3) It is becoming a regular occurrence for me to stand in the Parliament and point out to the Leader of the Opposition that the assumption behind his question is wrong. The Government’s decision on the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Bill was made on the merits of the case. The said lobbyist had absolutely no role in the decision made by the Government. First, my Government prides itself on the way in which it approaches the governing of Western Australia. We have made it absolutely clear that issues that were swept under the carpet because they were too hard for the previous Government will be brought to the surface for proper debate. Secondly, we have made it absolutely clear that we will follow due process in the decision-making functions of the Government of Western Australia; and we have. Thirdly, we have made it absolutely clear that when we make a decision, it will be in the public interest. The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
The whole question of the trotting industry and its relationship to the new council that we intend to set up has been debated widely in the community. I congratulate the Labor members of Parliament and the Leader of the National Party for representations they made on this issue on behalf of the trotting industry in their various electorates. I know how my Government works.
The SPEAKER: Members! Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
Dr G.I. GALLOP: First, my Government works on the basis of the merits of the argument. Any industry or business that wants to make a point to us about what we are doing knows that it can make the point and it will get a fair hearing. Secondly, I was disturbed to read in The West Australian this morning that Mr Grill was claiming responsibility for this decision. I was disturbed about that comment because I know how the decision was made and how my Government operates, and that the claim was not true. What is more, I was disturbed and concerned to read that significant amounts of money may be paid on the basis of a false assumption. The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
The Government’s decision was made properly. It would be bad news for the trotting industry if it has paid money to a person on the basis of what that person has not done, particularly as the industry has been struggling in the economic climate that exists. That is the reason we are reforming the racing and gaming industry. I was disturbed to read that article in the paper; it is not true. Our Government acts properly and according to due process. Anyone who claims otherwise is not telling the truth.
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