Dr MARTIN (3:09 PM) —My question is directed to the Minister for Defence. Minister, will you explain why you have not made a decision on the future of the $1 billion Defence Integrated Distribution System, despite a preferred tenderer having been forwarded to your predecessor six months ago? Isn't it a fact that this issue is the subject of deep backbench concern in the government over regional job losses and that this is delaying the decision? When are you going to announce the outcome of the tender for this system, and what guarantees will you give today about the job security of the Defence workers and their families in regional areas which will be affected by this decision? Finally, Minister, can you also guarantee that any cancellation of this project will not result in compensation claims being made against the Commonwealth?

Mr REITH (Minister for Defence) —It is true that that is an issue which I have been examining, obviously, as the incoming minister, and given the size and significance of that particular issue obviously I am giving it careful consideration. You would not expect me to do otherwise, presumably. Perhaps after question time you might put out a press release and give us the benefit of your views on the subject and the Labor Party's policy position to see where you stand on the issue. But, if you ask me am I looking at it and is the matter under consideration, of course it is, and when the government has made a decision of course you will be the first to know.