Page 3118 - Week 11 - Wednesday, 12 September 1990
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and the future implications for the Territory's budgetary situation.
That cannot be considered to be a cover-up, and it cannot be considered to be too little. I think it is comprehensive and I think those opposite ought to support it and to commit themselves to abiding by the umpire's decision.
Mr Berry: We do not support farcical acts.
MR HUMPHRIES: Mr Berry has indicated very clearly his view. He is not prepared to accept the umpire's decision, and that is typical of those - - -
Mr Berry: On a point of order: that is not what I said, Mr Speaker. I said that I do not support farcical acts.
MR SPEAKER: Order! You claim to have been misrepresented. You will have your chance at the end of the speech.
Mr Stevenson: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I think the speech has ended.
MR SPEAKER: No, you are incorrect, Mr Stevenson. There is no time limit. Please proceed, Mr Humphries.
MR HUMPHRIES: The fact of life is that this does cover the issues that have been properly raised and I think those opposite ought to support it for that reason. I will be announcing, I hope later today, the name of the person who will be conducting the inquiry and I hope it will be a person - I am confident it will be a person - in whom the Opposition can have as much confidence as the Government.
Mr Wood: Will he have hearings and take evidence?
MR HUMPHRIES: Mr Wood, I am sure that he or she will have the support of those in this chamber and outside the chamber with respect to the issues that that person will be considering. I think that the issues that have been raised by the community do underline the fact that there are still serious questions in the community about the Government's costings. I acknowledge that. If I did not acknowledge that I would not be proceeding down the path I have announced today. I do believe it is appropriate to raise those issues in that forum and I intend to proceed. It will report at a convenient time and that will have to be worked out with the person who is proposed for appointment and consultation will be conducted with that person on that subject.
Mr Stevenson: This year?
MR HUMPHRIES: Yes. I would expect it would be - - -
Mr Stevenson: About 20 November perhaps?
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