Senator ABETZ (Tasmania—Leader of the Government in the Senate, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Public Service and Minister for Employment) (14:12): The Prime Minister and Senator Edwards—and indeed all South Australian representatives on the coalition side—are absolutely committed to getting the very best defence capability for the best value from the Australian taxpayer. The discussion between the Prime Minister and Senator Edwards I was not privy to. If there are matters that the Prime Minister would seek to add to my answer, I will advise him of the fact that this question has been raised. But, put very simply, as I understand it, there is an agreement or a consensus between them as to what needs to be achieved for Australia. Opposition senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Order on my left! Senator Conroy, you have asked the question. Senator ABETZ: The government's policy is clear that there will be a competitive evaluation process for the submarine replacement that will take into account capability requirements, cost, schedule, technical risk and value-for-money considerations. Any Australian company that can credibly meet these criteria will of course be considered on merit. I would say to Senator Conroy that given his track record in relation to the NBN and other matters, he would not understand what a rigorous, proper process is for a very important procurement project such as submarines.