Senator CONROY (Victoria—Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity) (14:23): The leaking of the information, as mentioned just then by Senator Brandis and as I have previously advised, compromised the process. The government viewed the leak as serious, so serious, as Senator Brandis has indicated in his question, as to justify calling in the AFP. This action was in line with the advice of all departments involved. Taking this into account, as well as the fact that the leaking of confidential information was a matter which required investigation by the Australian Federal Police, the government was forced to abandon the Australia Network tender process. There was no way to assure ourselves that the final result in a negotiation as yet to take place was not open to challenge. Senator Brandis: On a point of order, Mr President, as you are aware, all I asked was whether the government would call in the Auditor-General—and to explain if not why not. The question was only related to whether the Auditor-General would be engaged. The minister has only addressed the issue of the request to the Australian Federal Police to investigate the matter. Although the minister is treating your rulings with contempt, it must be said, Mr President, I do ask you to draw him to the question. The PRESIDENT: The question was broader than that which you have indicated. The minister is answering the question. The minister has 10 seconds remaining. Senator CONROY: Much of the commentary on the leaked report has failed to appreciate that the next step in the tender process was to firm up bidder claims in contractual form. (Time expired)