Ms WORTH (6:55 PM) —I will respond briefly to some of the comments made by the member for Dobell. I am pleased, first of all, to hear him say that he will work constructively with the government—

Mr Lee —Just as I did in health.

Ms WORTH —Sometimes. That is provided he is given sufficient time, which of course leads me to some explanations. Perhaps it was because he was concentrating on the health portfolio that he was unaware that the main measures of this bill were introduced and passed through the House in 1997 but did not pass the Senate. Other measures were introduced into the House on 1 July 1998 but have lapsed.

The only new measures in this bill are the funding for Notre Dame University, which was agreed to in writing. I have here a copy of the letter from the Leader of the Opposition dated June 1998. The only other additional measures coming out of election promises were the funding for James Cook University and the strategic partnership industry training scheme, with additional funding through to 2000. There are no other new measures in this at all. I am sure that the member for Dobell will become better acquainted with his shadow portfolio as time goes by.

In response to his stories about rumours about meetings being held and which department officials would be there, it is my understanding that the meeting was only rescheduled and that it will take place very shortly, with the involvement of my department as well as that of the officers of the Department of Health and Aged Care.

I do thank those who have taken part in this debate. While they are few, it is very important legislation that should proceed promptly, and I seek the cooperation of my colleagues to ensure its rapid passage.

Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER —The immediate question is that the words proposed to be omitted stand part of the question.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Original question resolved in the affirmative.

Bill read a second time.

Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER —A message has been received from His Excellency the Governor-General recommending, in accordance with section 56 of the constitution, an appropriation for the purposes of this bill.

Mr Speaker has also received a message from His Excellency the Governor-General recommending, in accordance with section 56 of the constitution, an appropriation for the purpose of an amendment to this bill.