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Tuesday, 29 November 2005
Page: 12


Mr BEAZLEY (2:52 PM) —My question is to the Prime Minister. In relation to the 2003 appointment of Mr Robert Gerard to the Reserve Bank board, is the Prime Minister aware of comments reported in the Australian Financial Review today quoting an unnamed senior government minister who said:

Like we all do, he—

that is, the Treasurer—

would have raised it—

that is, the appointment of Mr Gerard and the circumstances of his tax avoidance—

with the Prime Minister’s office before taking it to cabinet.

Prime Minister, what discussions did you or your office have with the Treasurer or his office about the appointment of Mr Gerard and the tax scam allegations?


Mr HOWARD (Prime Minister) —The appointment was handled in a correct, appropriate manner. It went to cabinet. I think Mr Gerard is an excellent member of the Reserve Bank board.