Page 3856 - Week 13 - Tuesday, 30 November 2021
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MR BARR: Thank you for the question. Nuclear related? I think it would depend on how it is defined. In the context of weapons, no. Perhaps in the context of medical research and the like, I think that might be a different story.
Mr Hanson: Do you support the acquisition of the submarines?
MR BARR: I do not think there is much need for a submarine fleet. There is not much need for a submarine fleet in Lake Burley Griffin, Mr Hanson.
MADAM SPEAKER: Resume your seat, Mr Barr. There is a point of order.
Mr Davis: Madam Speaker, the Chief Minister only has two minutes to answer Ms Clay’s question. If Mr Hanson wants to take up an interjection in his own question—
MADAM SPEAKER: Yes. I remind members not to interject and perhaps members not to respond to interjections.
MR BARR: Madam Speaker, I feel that I can absolutely and categorically rule out any nuclear submarines operating within any of Canberra’s lakes.
Mr Hanson: Are you sure?
MR BARR: Yes; thank you, Mr Hanson.
In relation to the question, I would need from the member a better—perhaps tighter—definition of what “nuclear related” means. Clearly, there would be some elements within that industry sector that would not be related to either energy or weapons that may in fact be, indeed, a highly suitable area for investment.
University of Canberra—commercial development
MS LAWDER: My question is to the Chief Minister: the Riotact reported on 23 November about the sale of land by UC for $69 million. This land will be redeveloped and include up to 2,600 residential dwellings. The article notes that the deal is subject to your government granting a Crown lease. Chief Minister, will your government grant that Crown lease?
MR BARR: I think that would be asking for a government policy announcement. Clearly, we have passed enabling legislation to enable this to happen. So, subject to the appropriate planning oversight, it would seem illogical for this parliament to have established such a framework and put in place that the clear government policy to support the diversification of land uses and activities on the university campus—so it would seem logical, without pre-empting a final decision, that that would be the direction we would be heading in.
MS LAWDER: Chief Minister, have you or anyone in your office met with any individuals other than direct staff of the University of Canberra regarding this land sale and, if so, who?
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