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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2003 Week 14 Hansard (10 December) . . Page.. 5103 ..

MR WOOD (continuing):

implemented. The further extension of concession or discounts for paying online will have some technical, administrative and financial implications, and we will consider this issue in the context of the 2004-05 budget.

Bus stops

MR CORBELL (Minister for Health and Minister for Planning) (3.22): In the adjournment debate yesterday Mr Cornwell asked me a question about a bus stop outside No 36 Mulley Street in Holder. I indicated to Mr Cornwell yesterday that the bus stop had been constructed without the approval of the relevant government agency.

I can now confirm that that is the case. The relevant government agency did not give its approval for the construction of the new bus pad opposite 36 Mulley Street. Work has been stopped on that bus pad, and it will be removed. There will be no change to the bus stop adjacent to No 36 Mulley Street and my office has informed the residents of No 36 Mulley Street of this.

Personal explanations

MS TUCKER: I would like to make a personal explanation under standing order 46. I need to correct a misrepresentation by Mrs Cross about my office and my position on Mrs Cross' gambling bill. The media release she put out basically said that I decided to vote in a particular way in exchange for preferences. This is quite a serious allegation, implying corruption of a serious nature. I put on the record that there is no basis in fact for that allegation. It is bizarre and ridiculous. Most people in this place would know that I don't do deals across issues. I put on the record that I regret that Mrs Cross chose to make that statement without even asking me.

MR STANHOPE (Chief Minister, Attorney-General, Minister for Environment and Minister for Community Affairs): I seek leave to make a personal explanation on the same matter. I endorse the comments made by Ms Tucker. The matter involved the use of the word "bribery". I think that Ms Tucker-

MR SPEAKER: The Chief Minister will stick to the personal nature of the issue.

MR STANHOPE: On my own behalf and on behalf of the Labor Party, I take the same umbrage at the suggestion that we have voted in this place on the basis of a political deal in relation to matters outside this place. I categorically deny it, on behalf of the government and on behalf of the Labor Party. I take serious personal offence at the suggestion that I have been engaged in bribery-and that was the word that was used-for personal or party political reasons, on a vote to be taken in this place. I think it's a highly actionable defamation and I take it seriously. I am genuinely offended by it.

Government services in suburban Canberra

MR HARGREAVES (3.26), in reply: In closing the debate I thank members for their comments, constructive and otherwise. I urge members to note the words of the motion. They are that the Assembly notes the importance of government services in suburban

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