Mr CREAN (2:00 PM) —My question is to the Prime Minister. Prime Minister, do you recall on 10 October saying in response to a question about children allegedly being thrown overboard:

Prime Minister, what inquiries did you make after 10 October?

Mr HOWARD (Prime Minister) —I thank the Leader of the Opposition. I do remember that interview, and I do remember giving that assurance. Shortly after that press conference I spoke to the then defence minister and asked him whether there was any further evidence that could be made available. He indicated to me—as was within my knowledge because of some press reports—that there were some photographs. I suggested that, if it was operationally possible, those be made available if they provided further evidence. My recollection of the conversation—there may have been two in a short period of time—is that it was agreed that those photographs would be made available. He subsequently made some comments about it. I have checked my transcripts for that period and, as the deputy leader will know, it was a very busy political period. Interestingly enough, I do not appear to have been asked another question on that issue for another 16 days.