❓ Opposition questions the Premier about the controversial appointment of Mr. David Caporn to a senior role in FESA, citing a critical report and past misconduct allegations. The Premier deflects, promising to seek further advice.
AnsweredQoN 354Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
MR DAVID CAPORN — APPOINTMENT
I refer to the scathing report tabled today by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards into the processes leading to the appointment of Mr David Caporn to the position of Executive Director, Community Development, of the Fire and Emergency Services Authority. Given that Mr Caporn was the subject of a now aborted disciplinary action by Western Australia Police following a Corruption and Crime Commission finding of misconduct, and that his appointment has been found to be in breach of public sector standards — (1) Does the Premier believe it is tenable for Mr Caporn to remain in his position and for the government to take no action? (2) Has the Premier sought legal advice about the government’s capacity to require FESA to suspend Mr Caporn’s permanent appointment and start the selection process anew? (3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT
I refer to the scathing report tabled today by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards into the processes leading to the appointment of Mr David Caporn to the position of Executive Director, Community Development, of the Fire and Emergency Services Authority. Given that Mr Caporn was the subject of a now aborted disciplinary action by Western Australia Police following a Corruption and Crime Commission finding of misconduct, and that his appointment has been found to be in breach of public sector standards — (1) Does the Premier believe it is tenable for Mr Caporn to remain in his position and for the government to take no action? (2) Has the Premier sought legal advice about the government’s capacity to require FESA to suspend Mr Caporn’s permanent appointment and start the selection process anew? (3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT
AnswerView source ↗
(1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(1) Does the Premier believe it is tenable for Mr Caporn to remain in his position and for the government to take no action? (2) Has the Premier sought legal advice about the government’s capacity to require FESA to suspend Mr Caporn’s permanent appointment and start the selection process anew? (3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(2) Has the Premier sought legal advice about the government’s capacity to require FESA to suspend Mr Caporn’s permanent appointment and start the selection process anew? (3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(1) Does the Premier believe it is tenable for Mr Caporn to remain in his position and for the government to take no action? (2) Has the Premier sought legal advice about the government’s capacity to require FESA to suspend Mr Caporn’s permanent appointment and start the selection process anew? (3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(2) Has the Premier sought legal advice about the government’s capacity to require FESA to suspend Mr Caporn’s permanent appointment and start the selection process anew? (3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(3) What action will the Premier take to ensure that the disciplinary inquiry into Mr Caporn’s conduct is resumed and completed? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
(1)-(3) I have not read the report by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards, but I am broadly aware of its content. It points to some shortcomings in the selection and appointment processes. It is my understanding that the commissioner also made comments to the effect that the appointment should stand, or could stand. Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Do you believe that it’s tenable? Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : It does not really matter for the moment what I believe or do not believe. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re the Premier! The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I repeat: the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has produced a report in which she has raised questions about the appointment of Mr David Caporn — Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : It’s a scathing report! She didn’t just raise questions! Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : The thing that concerns me most is whether the processes of application, interview and appointment have been conducted correctly. That is the prime concern. Mr Caporn’s investigation by the police — Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Wrong panel, wrong criteria and poor referee consultation. The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
The SPEAKER : Leader of the Opposition! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That may well take place. We are getting a bit of an idea about why the previous government so compromised the public service, because the Labor Party wants to second-guess every process. It thinks it knows better, but it does not, and its appalling performance in government is proof of that. I will tell the Leader of the Opposition what I will do, and that is what I should do — Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Ms M.M. Quirk : Read the report, for a start! The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will do the correct thing: I will refer the report immediately to the Public Sector Commissioner for his advice. I will wait for his advice—I imagine that I will not have to wait long—and I will act upon his advice.
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