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the committee had in mind one of the recommendations of the former PDI Committee, in its last report to the Second Assembly, on possible changes to planning legislation in the ACT. I call it the PDI Committee, Mr Speaker; but, considering that we are in a new Assembly, I probably should refer to it as the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Committee of the previous Assembly. I understand that the PDI Committee, whilst concerned about betterment policy in the ACT, did not have the time to examine the issue in detail. Hence, it recommended that “an appropriate committee of the new Assembly inquire into betterment in the ACT”.

The Planning and Environment Committee considers that the new material revealed in the course of its consideration of the Yowani draft variation and the redevelopment proposal for the Watson drive-in site indicates that an inquiry by an Assembly committee would be prolonged and may politicise issues which are of central concern to all Canberrans. Therefore, the committee considers that an inquiry under the Inquiries Act is the appropriate way to further the public interest in safeguarding the administration of ACT leasing. On behalf of the committee, Mr Speaker, I must acknowledge the speedy response of the Government in deciding to establish an inquiry, as called for by the committee. I understand that the Minister will shortly announce details of the inquiry's terms of reference, membership and reporting date. The Planning and Environment Committee will be closely monitoring the report of that inquiry. Mr Speaker, I am delighted that the Government has responded positively to the committee, and I look forward to the outcome of that inquiry.

SCRUTINY OF BILLS AND SUBORDINATE LEGISLATION -STANDING COMMITTEE

Reports and Statement

MR OSBORNE: Mr Speaker, I present Reports Nos 4 and 5 of 1995 of the Standing Committee on Scrutiny of Bills and Subordinate Legislation. I ask for leave to make a brief statement on the reports.

Leave granted.

MR OSBORNE: Reports Nos 4 and 5 of 1995, which I have just presented, were circulated when the Assembly was not sitting, on 17 May 1995 and 9 June 1995, respectively, pursuant to the resolution of appointment of 9 March 1995. I commend the reports to the Assembly.

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