❓ A parliamentary question regarding the arrest of high school students at a Bhangra festival, specifically focusing on the alleged use of Tasers and potential racial bias. The Minister's response is defensive and denies racial bias.
AnsweredQoN 954Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
BHANGRA FESTIVAL PARTY, FREMANTLE — ARRESTS OF HIGH SCHOOL CHILDREN
I refer to the Bhangra festival party in Fremantle on 15 November 2009, which resulted in five high school children being arrested. (1) Is the minister aware that the police threatened several juveniles with Tasers? (2) Is the minister aware that 17-year-old Taryn Milroy, son of playwright David Milroy, was pushed to the ground and had a Taser held to his eye? (3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON
I refer to the Bhangra festival party in Fremantle on 15 November 2009, which resulted in five high school children being arrested. (1) Is the minister aware that the police threatened several juveniles with Tasers? (2) Is the minister aware that 17-year-old Taryn Milroy, son of playwright David Milroy, was pushed to the ground and had a Taser held to his eye? (3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(1) Is the minister aware that the police threatened several juveniles with Tasers? (2) Is the minister aware that 17-year-old Taryn Milroy, son of playwright David Milroy, was pushed to the ground and had a Taser held to his eye? (3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(2) Is the minister aware that 17-year-old Taryn Milroy, son of playwright David Milroy, was pushed to the ground and had a Taser held to his eye? (3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(1) Is the minister aware that the police threatened several juveniles with Tasers? (2) Is the minister aware that 17-year-old Taryn Milroy, son of playwright David Milroy, was pushed to the ground and had a Taser held to his eye? (3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(2) Is the minister aware that 17-year-old Taryn Milroy, son of playwright David Milroy, was pushed to the ground and had a Taser held to his eye? (3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(3) Does the minister concede that Taryn Milroy could—I emphasise the word “could”—have been targeted by police because he is Aboriginal? (4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(4) Does the minister support the use of Tasers on juveniles? Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON replied: I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
I thank the member for the question. (1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
(1)-(4) I have to say that I find the third part of the question absolutely offensive. I am aware of the remarks that the member has made in the past in which she has accused our police officers of being racist. That is an absolute insult against our hardworking police officers. Do I agree with that comment? Absolutely not, and the member should be ashamed of herself for making such an assumption. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : Member for Armadale! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I am aware of what happened at the festival in Fremantle. I have been given a briefing note, and I am aware of the comments of the member for Fremantle. Tasers are used only in circumstances in which there is a threat of harm to police officers, to members of the community or to the offender. Police follow strict guidelines and procedures and also undergo rigorous training on the use of Tasers. Tasers are used for compliance purposes, not to intimidate or traumatise people. The assumptions in the member’s question are wrong and insulting. The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The member is referring to the south metropolitan district office, which is overseeing an internal investigation into the incident. The investigation and the outcome will be subject to review and an independent assessment by the Corruption and Crime Commission, so there is a two-stop shop of people overlooking the allegations that have been made. I think that is absolutely appropriate; I agree with that. In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
In relation to whether I think that Tasers should be used to try to stop a juvenile from causing harm to a police officer, to members of the community or, indeed, to himself, police are very responsible in the use of Tasers under those guidelines. The member is talking about a 17-year-old juvenile who was involved in an affray. I will tell members what happened on that night. During the festival, police made a number of arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of police officers and, in several instances, bottles were thrown at police officers. That sort of behaviour is not acceptable and our police officers should not have to tolerate it. A fairly large 17-year-old can be just as dangerous as an 18-year-old. At the end of the day, if people want to behave like that—I think there were circumstances in which that young offender absconded — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : I refer to standing order 91. I am not aware whether a person has been charged or otherwise, but if an individual has been charged, the Minister for Police is now making comments on the individual facts of that matter. I urge him to be very careful with his comments in this house because they may influence a trial. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I think it should be noted that the member who asked the question referred to the individual by name. The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : I thank the member for Rockingham for raising the issue of standing order 91. I am sure that the Minister for Police is familiar with standing order 91. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : Indeed, Mr Speaker, I am very well aware of that standing order. That is why I have not mentioned any names in this chamber, particularly the names of juveniles. Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Several members interjected. Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I did not mention it; the member for Fremantle did. I was surprised that she mentioned a juvenile’s name in this house, because that is not the procedure in this house, as members know. Point of Order Ms A.S. CARLES : I have a point of order about the comments made by the minister. I know that the 17-year-old in question did not throw any bottles. I have been fully informed about what happened. The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : That is not a point of order. Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Ms A.S. CARLES : I am sorry; I withdraw that. The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : I ask the minister to conclude his remarks. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I will be very happy to do that, Mr Speaker. I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
I did not at any time suggest that the 17-year-old in question threw bottles; I said that a number of people threw bottles at police. Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr P.B. Watson interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
The SPEAKER : Member for Albany! Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
Mr R.F. JOHNSON : I have every confidence in our police officers, the way that they behave and their use of Tasers. I do not believe WA Police is a racist organisation, as intimated by the member for Fremantle. I find that sort of comment absolutely offensive. I know that our hardworking police officers will find that not only offensive, but also insulting. Our police officers do a great job in difficult circumstances. If there is a fight, an affray or public disorder, and people throw things and attack our police officers, the police have every right to use those Tasers for the purposes that I have outlined in my answer.
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