MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

( Ms Scrymgour ): Before I call the minister, I say to the Leader of the Nationals in the House of Representatives—and to all members—that on page 516 of House of Representatives Practice says that an accusation that a member has lied is clearly an imputation of an improper motive and is therefore ruled disorderly. I just need to point that out and ask you to withdraw those comments that you made in your speech.