Mr Martin Ferguson asked the Minister representing the Minister for Family and Community Services, upon notice, on 1 June 1999:

(1) Has the Minister or a department or agency administered by the Minister provided grants to the National Farmers' Federation (NFF) or bodies related to the NFF since 2 March 1996; if so, (a) in each case, (i) what was the nature of the grant and (ii) for what purpose was it provided and (b) what total sum was provided.

(2) To what boards, committees or other bodies for which the Minister has portfolio responsibility have (a) Mr Donald McGauchie (b) Dr Wendy Craik or (c) other officers or staff of the NFF been appointed since 2 March 1996.

(3) What sums has the Commonwealth paid in (a) sitting fees, (b) board fees, (c) travel costs and (d) related expenses with respect to each appointment referred to in part (2).

Mr Truss (Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) —The Minister for Family and Community Services has provided the following answer to the honourable member's question:

(1) No.

(2) (a) None.

(b) None.

(c) Ms Julie Austin, Policy Adviser with the National Farmers Federation was a member of the Special Rural Task Force between September 1996 and December 1996.

(3) (a) to (d) Nil.