Page 3475 - Week 09 - Thursday, 20 August 2009
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MS GALLAGHER: The fact that we are misleading the house.
Mr Smyth: I am not sure that I have been directed to withdraw, but I withdraw.
MADAM ASSISTANT SPEAKER: Thank you.
Mr Corbell: The withdrawal, of course, as Mr Smyth well knows—
Mrs Dunne: Do you want to do the job yourself, Simon?
MADAM ASSISTANT SPEAKER: All right, Mr Corbell. Thank you; can we have Ms Gallagher back.
MS GALLAGHER: Thank you, Madam Assistant Speaker. In relation to the code of conduct for ministers itself, it was published in 2004 and it is structured around five core obligations: respect for the law and the system of government, respect for persons; integrity, accountability and honesty; diligence; and economy and efficiency. I have already observed that none of these principles should surprise anyone. They are at the core of all successful Westminster democracies.
Against these fundamental principles, the code provides practical guidance to ministers on what is expected of them as they discharge those important offices. The code articulates overarching obligations on ministers, including, for example, saying:
Ministers will at all times seek to advance the common good of the community that they serve, in recognition that public office involves a public trust … Ministers will ensure that their official powers or positions are not used improperly for personal advantage, and that any conflict between personal interests and public duty which may arise is resolved in favour of the public interest …
Ministers should exercise due diligence, care and attention, and at all times seek to achieve the highest standards practicable in relation to their duties and responsibilities in their official capacity as a Government Minister …
Ministers will be scrupulous in their use of public property, services and facilities, and will make every endeavour to prevent misuse by other persons.
The code articulates the high expectations placed on ministers in their dealings with others, including saying, for example:
… a Minister will not dishonestly or recklessly attack the reputation of any other person.
Opposition members interjecting—
MADAM ASSISTANT SPEAKER: Can we please be quiet.
Mr Hanson: Is Mr Barr aware of these rules?
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