Senator NASH (New South Wales—Deputy Leader of The Nationals, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Local Government and Territories and Minister for Regional Communications) (14:19): I don't believe that that particular question relates to my portfolio area. Certainly, I reject any assertion that the decisions that the government makes relate to that. Senator McAllister: A point of order, Mr President. My understanding is that Senator Nash represents the Deputy Prime Minister in this chamber. I don't understand the basis on which she is refusing to answer the question. The PRESIDENT: That's a point of clarification. There was no need for me to intervene. The minister made her statement, and part of that question was in her capacity as representing the Deputy Prime Minister, and part of it was not within her portfolio. So the minister was right in her assertion, and the minister answered the portion that she needed to. Minister, have you concluded your answer? Senator NASH: Yes, Mr President. The PRESIDENT: Thank you, Minister.