Senator DEAN SMITH (Western Australia) (14:15): The Assistant Treasurer had a subsequent blunder yesterday when the government moved an amendment to a government bill being managed by the Assistant Treasurer that was identical to an opposition amendment the government had opposed in the House of Representatives. Has the Treasurer or his office met with the Assistant Treasurer to counsel him on parliamentary process, legislative management— The PRESIDENT: Minister Wong? Senator Wong: I submit that that question is not a supplementary question. The PRESIDENT: Senator Birmingham? Senator Birmingham: On the point of order, wide latitude was granted to the minister in answering the primary question—wide latitude to talk generally about deals and about conduct. This goes, very clearly, to the conduct and capability of the Assistant Treasurer, who seems to be an ongoing embarrassment for the government. The PRESIDENT: Senator Birmingham, I listened carefully to the points that were made, and I am advised that it is not a supplementary question. As Senator Birmingham said, often latitude is given, and latitude can be given on this occasion, but it is up to the minister as to whether she answers the question or not. I'm going to invite Senator Smith to finish asking the question. Senator Dean Smith: Shall I start again, President? The PRESIDENT: Senator Wong? Senator Wong: I suggest that we're happy to give leave for him to rephrase the question. The PRESIDENT: It's in your hands, Senator Smith. Senator DEAN SMITH: Has the Treasurer or his office met with the Assistant Treasurer to counsel him on parliamentary process, legislative management or how to conduct negotiations with parliamentary colleagues in good faith? The PRESIDENT: I will give the minister the opportunity to answer that.