QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:11): I thank the senator for his question. What I can say to you is that I understand that this is a facility open to all in the Grayndler electorate, and I can confirm that paid social membership is valued at the bargain price of $5 for two years. I would just simply say the Prime Minister is engaged closely in his electorate.

He is— The PRESIDENT: Minister Wong, please resume your seat. Senator Scarr? Senator Scarr: My point of order goes to direct relevance.

The question was: what steps has he taken to assure himself? If the minister doesn't know, take it on notice. The PRESIDENT: Thank you, Senator Scarr.

I remind you once again that you stand and make your point of order. It doesn't give you an obligation or an entitlement to make a statement. The minister is being relevant.

I would advise you to not allow interjections on your side, because those can also be taken into account. Minister Wong? Senator WONG: Thank you, President.

As I said, I'm advised that paid social membership is valued at the bargain price of five bucks for two years, which seems extraordinarily low. Always, Senator Scarr, if I'm able to provide further information, I will. I would make the point to you that the Prime Minister remains someone who has represented this community for many, many years and is engaged in many aspects of community life.

The grants that we have spoken about—for example, grants during the last election campaign, also went to the Leichhardt Women's Community Health Centre and to the St Vincent de Paul Society. Yes, he's a local member, so it's normal for— Honourable senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Order! Order across the chamber.

Minister Wong. Senator WONG: If I can provide further information, I will do so. The PRESIDENT: Senator Scarr, a first supplementary?