Urgent Debates Declined — Trade Agreements—Saudi Agri-hub and Release of Information

I have received a letter from the Hon David Parker seeking to debate under Standing Order 389 the release of documents pertaining to the Government’s dealings with a Saudi businessman. This is a particular case of recent occurrence involving ministerial responsibility. There must be an element of urgency for a matter to take precedence over other business. The proper use of taxpayer funds is an important issue. The question is whether the release of documents is an issue so urgent that the ordinary business of the House should be set aside to address it. I am not persuaded that the business of the House should be set aside today. However, I note that the Auditor-General has been asked to investigate the matter. Should she do so, then the findings of that investigation may warrant a debate in the House at that time. The application is, therefore, declined.