Mr Tanner asked the Minister for Transport and Regional Development, upon notice, on 11 March 1998:

(1) Has he, his office or his Department had discussions about the proposed fanning out of Sydney (Kingsford-Smith) Airport flights over the eastern suburbs of Sydney and the introduction of mode 6A; if so, (a) with whom were the discussions held and (b) when were they held.

(2) Has his attention been drawn to a press release entitled "Joe Hockey and Mode 6A" issued by the Member for Wentworth on 3 March 1998; if so, are statements relating to the matter referred to in part (1) which are contained in the press release accurate.

Mr Vaile (Transport and Regional Development) —The answer to the honourable member's question is as follows:

(1) Neither I nor my office have been involved in discussions on the fanning out of flight paths over the eastern suburbs.

The possibility of fanning out of flight paths over the eastern suburbs was raised briefly, but not taken up, at the meeting of the Implementation and Monitoring Committee held on 20 January 1998. The introduction of mode 6A was discussed at the meetings of the Implementation and Monitoring Committee held on 20 January 1998, 17 February 1998 and 10 March 1998. A representative of the Department was present at these meetings.

(2) I and Members of the Implementation and Monitoring Committee were aware of the proposed mode 6A on the date of the media release.