Page 1280 - Week 04 - Thursday, 7 April 2016
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impact that the memorandum of understanding with UnionsACT has had on their business?
DR BOURKE: I thank the member for his question. I am not aware of representations from small business owners that may have been received in my office but I will look into that and report back if there have, indeed, been any.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Wall.
MR WALL: Minister, why did the government fail to consult with small businesses about the MOU?
DR BOURKE: Could I hear that question again, please?
MADAM SPEAKER: Yes.
MR WALL: It is a straightforward one. Minister, why did the government fail to consult with small businesses about the MOU?
DR BOURKE: This MOU has been going on for a very long time, as I seem to recollect from questions about it in regard to estimates hearings back in 2010. I think Mr Smyth was there in the room, along with Ms Le Couteur and Mr Hargreaves, who are no longer with us. So it was all some time ago when this MOU was discussed in a committee hearing in this place.
Mr Wall interjecting—
MADAM SPEAKER: Order! You have an opportunity to ask questions. Dr Bourke is now answering your question, Mr Wall.
Mr Hanson interjecting—
MADAM SPEAKER: You can run your own critique elsewhere, but not in here. Dr Bourke.
DR BOURKE: As I was trying to say, this MOU certainly pre-dates my time both in this chamber and as the minister for small business. So it has been around for a long time. The Canberra Liberals have known about it for at least the past six years. I cannot understand why suddenly it is of such interest to them.
Housing—homelessness
MS BURCH: A new question?
MADAM SPEAKER: Ms Burch, a question without notice.
Mr Smyth: Sorry, a supplementary—
MS BURCH: I’ve been given the call, Mr Smyth.
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