Ronaldson, Sen Michael

Senator RONALDSON (Victoria) (14:27): It is another attempt to cover up this matter. It is another attempt to cover up— The PRESIDENT: A question must be a question and there should be no argument prefacing the question. That is consistent with standing orders—no arguments. Senator RONALDSON: Mr President, I ask a further supplementary question. Can the minister explain his denials, given that he was well aware that New South Wales Labor paid Mr Thomson's legal fees—believed to be in excess of $150,000. Minister, is it not the case that this is a government led by a Prime Minister who is willing to pay any money to, or excuse any indiscretion by, the member for Dobell if it means protecting her wafer thin majority? The PRESIDENT: On the same basis, Minister.