QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Mr ALBANESE (Grayndler—Prime Minister) (14:18): I thank the member for Kennedy for his question. I'll answer it and then get the Minister for Resources to supplement my answer. I've stood with the member for Kennedy in Mount Isa a number of times, backing in industry and support in that vital area of Queensland.

The member is certainly right that, when it comes to gas reservation in this country, it needs to be an important part of the policy solution that is required. Our resources have provided us with enormous benefit and income from export, but we also need to make sure that gas is available for domestic manufacturing and, particularly, that we learn the lessons of Western Australia, which has successfully had a gas reservation scheme on the east coast, which is what we have been working on—consulting with industry constructively.

I look forward to continuing to consult with the member for Kennedy on these issues. I'd ask the minister to add to my answer.