❓ Treasurer Ripper details an upcoming trade mission to India, highlighting the strong economic ties and potential for further collaboration. The response also devolves into political sparring.
AnsweredQoN 341Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
TRADE MISSION TO INDIA
Will the Treasurer inform the house of the details of his upcoming trade mission to India? Mr E.S. RIPPER
Will the Treasurer inform the house of the details of his upcoming trade mission to India? Mr E.S. RIPPER
AnswerView source ↗
India has emerged as a major economic player in the Asian region. Its growth rate has been more than eight per cent a year in each of the past five years. In growth terms, that makes it second in the region only to China. It is Western Australia’s fourth largest export market, with exports in 2007 of more than $5 billion, which was an increase on the previous year of $4.3 billion. Western Australia accounts for 54.1 per cent of Australia’s exports to India. We are also seeing significant Indian investment in our resources sector, with more than $1 billion worth of investment from India, including the ammonia and the proposed ammonium nitrate plant in the Burrup and the Nifty copper mine, and investments in the agribusiness sector. There is a growing Indian interest in oil and gas exploration in Western Australia, onshore and offshore. In May 2005 I met Hon Kamal Nath, the Indian Union Minister for Commerce and Industry. In July last year I met Hon Ram Vilas Paswan, India’s Minister for Steel. Last January I met the Indian Prime Minister’s Special Envoy, Mr Shyam Saran, as well as the new Indian High Commissioner, Mrs Sujatha Singh. All invited me to visit India to strengthen bilateral relations. Clearly, it is very important for the state to foster those relationships with India, which is an important trading partner and which is experiencing tremendous economic growth and will do so in the future. Mr M.J. Birney : What is the name of the President? Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: India has emerged as a major economic player in the Asian region. Its growth rate has been more than eight per cent a year in each of the past five years. In growth terms, that makes it second in the region only to China. It is Western Australia’s fourth largest export market, with exports in 2007 of more than $5 billion, which was an increase on the previous year of $4.3 billion. Western Australia accounts for 54.1 per cent of Australia’s exports to India. We are also seeing significant Indian investment in our resources sector, with more than $1 billion worth of investment from India, including the ammonia and the proposed ammonium nitrate plant in the Burrup and the Nifty copper mine, and investments in the agribusiness sector. There is a growing Indian interest in oil and gas exploration in Western Australia, onshore and offshore. In May 2005 I met Hon Kamal Nath, the Indian Union Minister for Commerce and Industry. In July last year I met Hon Ram Vilas Paswan, India’s Minister for Steel. Last January I met the Indian Prime Minister’s Special Envoy, Mr Shyam Saran, as well as the new Indian High Commissioner, Mrs Sujatha Singh. All invited me to visit India to strengthen bilateral relations. Clearly, it is very important for the state to foster those relationships with India, which is an important trading partner and which is experiencing tremendous economic growth and will do so in the future. Mr M.J. Birney : What is the name of the President? Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
India has emerged as a major economic player in the Asian region. Its growth rate has been more than eight per cent a year in each of the past five years. In growth terms, that makes it second in the region only to China. It is Western Australia’s fourth largest export market, with exports in 2007 of more than $5 billion, which was an increase on the previous year of $4.3 billion. Western Australia accounts for 54.1 per cent of Australia’s exports to India. We are also seeing significant Indian investment in our resources sector, with more than $1 billion worth of investment from India, including the ammonia and the proposed ammonium nitrate plant in the Burrup and the Nifty copper mine, and investments in the agribusiness sector. There is a growing Indian interest in oil and gas exploration in Western Australia, onshore and offshore. In May 2005 I met Hon Kamal Nath, the Indian Union Minister for Commerce and Industry. In July last year I met Hon Ram Vilas Paswan, India’s Minister for Steel. Last January I met the Indian Prime Minister’s Special Envoy, Mr Shyam Saran, as well as the new Indian High Commissioner, Mrs Sujatha Singh. All invited me to visit India to strengthen bilateral relations. Clearly, it is very important for the state to foster those relationships with India, which is an important trading partner and which is experiencing tremendous economic growth and will do so in the future. Mr M.J. Birney : What is the name of the President? Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr M.J. Birney : What is the name of the President? Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: India has emerged as a major economic player in the Asian region. Its growth rate has been more than eight per cent a year in each of the past five years. In growth terms, that makes it second in the region only to China. It is Western Australia’s fourth largest export market, with exports in 2007 of more than $5 billion, which was an increase on the previous year of $4.3 billion. Western Australia accounts for 54.1 per cent of Australia’s exports to India. We are also seeing significant Indian investment in our resources sector, with more than $1 billion worth of investment from India, including the ammonia and the proposed ammonium nitrate plant in the Burrup and the Nifty copper mine, and investments in the agribusiness sector. There is a growing Indian interest in oil and gas exploration in Western Australia, onshore and offshore. In May 2005 I met Hon Kamal Nath, the Indian Union Minister for Commerce and Industry. In July last year I met Hon Ram Vilas Paswan, India’s Minister for Steel. Last January I met the Indian Prime Minister’s Special Envoy, Mr Shyam Saran, as well as the new Indian High Commissioner, Mrs Sujatha Singh. All invited me to visit India to strengthen bilateral relations. Clearly, it is very important for the state to foster those relationships with India, which is an important trading partner and which is experiencing tremendous economic growth and will do so in the future. Mr M.J. Birney : What is the name of the President? Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
India has emerged as a major economic player in the Asian region. Its growth rate has been more than eight per cent a year in each of the past five years. In growth terms, that makes it second in the region only to China. It is Western Australia’s fourth largest export market, with exports in 2007 of more than $5 billion, which was an increase on the previous year of $4.3 billion. Western Australia accounts for 54.1 per cent of Australia’s exports to India. We are also seeing significant Indian investment in our resources sector, with more than $1 billion worth of investment from India, including the ammonia and the proposed ammonium nitrate plant in the Burrup and the Nifty copper mine, and investments in the agribusiness sector. There is a growing Indian interest in oil and gas exploration in Western Australia, onshore and offshore. In May 2005 I met Hon Kamal Nath, the Indian Union Minister for Commerce and Industry. In July last year I met Hon Ram Vilas Paswan, India’s Minister for Steel. Last January I met the Indian Prime Minister’s Special Envoy, Mr Shyam Saran, as well as the new Indian High Commissioner, Mrs Sujatha Singh. All invited me to visit India to strengthen bilateral relations. Clearly, it is very important for the state to foster those relationships with India, which is an important trading partner and which is experiencing tremendous economic growth and will do so in the future. Mr M.J. Birney : What is the name of the President? Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr M.J. Birney : What is the name of the President? Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : The name of the President of India? Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr A.J. Carpenter : I asked him that one. Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : If the Premier asked the member for Kalgoorlie that, the member for Kalgoorlie should be able to tell us! For the information of the member, I will include that in my report! I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
I will be travelling to India to collect important information—including that particular point—from 5 July to 16 July. I will be visiting Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
The DEPUTY SPEAKER : Order! Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Several members interjected. The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
The DEPUTY SPEAKER : I do not think that I asked for the contribution from the members for Murray or Moore, or the member for Kalgoorlie. Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : I will meet Indian federal and state ministers, including the Minister for Steel, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, the Minister for Mines and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. I will also be meeting leading Indian industrialists, bankers and representatives of industry associations. It is important to note that the Western Australian government has had a trade office in Mumbai in India since 1996, with a satellite office in Chennai. As my colleague the Minister for Small Business pointed out, it does an excellent job. My visit will help support its work and encourage future opportunities for collaboration. It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
It is important that we lift Western Australia’s profile and business interests in this market and demonstrate our commitment to stronger ties. My visit will help provide a platform for Western Australian companies seeking to do business with India. It will help open doors and enhance the profile of our industrial capabilities in the region. It will help diversify Western Australian exports into Indian markets. It will help signal Western Australia’s strong commitment to India and help attract further Indian investment into our state. For the interest of the opposition, of course, such a visit has a cost. Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : I’m very supportive of you going. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Does the Leader of the Opposition suggest I consult with any lobbyists before I go? Should I act like the member for South Perth and take advice? I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition whether he meets with Noel Crichton-Browne. Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : I haven’t met with him since the back end of 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Was that the meeting in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : No, it was after that. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Has the Leader of the Opposition met with Noel Crichton-Browne since he met with him in the car park? Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : Yes. Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : The Leader of the Opposition has declared in this house that he has not met with Noel Crichton-Browne in the past two years. Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr T. Buswell : Not since late 2006. Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Mr E.S. RIPPER : Let Hansard record that declaration. It is a brave declaration. Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
Let me move to the cost of the trip. The trip will cost my office $30 598, with a further $17 299 in estimated costs for the Department of Industry and Resources. I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
I can declare that I have not met with Noel Crichton-Browne and I will be not be taking advice from lobbyists before I visit India.
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