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Wednesday, 13 May 1981
Page: 2364

(Question No. 407)


Mr Jacobi asked the Leader of the House, upon notice, on 24 February 1981:

(1) Does he intend to have brought before the Parliament for consideration a Parliamentary Witnesses Protection Bill as recommended by the House of Representatives Committee of Privileges in its report relating to the alleged discrimination and intimidation of Mr David E. Berthelsen in his public service employment because of evidence given by him to a sub-committee of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence.

(2) If so, will the proposed legislation provide for the prosecution of persons who tamper with, intimidate or discriminate against witnesses who give (or have given) evidence before a Parliamentary Committee or the House and also provide a statutory cause of action in which witnesses who have suffered intimidation or discrimination would have the right to sue for damages those responsible for the intimidation.

(3) When is it intended that the legislation will be introduced.


Mr Sinclair —The answer to the honourable member's question is as follows:

An opportunity will be provided as soon as possible for members to debate the recommendations of the report of the House of Representatives Committee of Privileges referred to by the honourable member. The Government will consider its position on the outstanding issues raised in the report when it has been debated.