Senator COOK —My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology. I refer to the denial by the minister for industry, Mr Moore, that he had had any personal involvement in a campaign to lobby a hit list of cabinet ministers to maintain tariffs on textiles, clothing and footwear. Is it true that Mr Moore hosted and chaired a meeting between his departmental officials and senior TCF industry association executives in Canberra on 13 February? Is it true that at that meeting Mr Moore's officials advised the lobbyists present to confront key cabinet ministers with threats of job losses in their electorates and home states if industry protection was cut? Did the hit list include Mr Fahey, Mr Reith, Mr Costello, Mr McLachlan and Mr Downer? Does this constitute personal involvement by Mr Moore and is this the way Howard government ministers go about advancing the interests of mainstream Australia? (Time expired)

Senator PARER —The minister advises that the report in Saturday's Australian is incorrect and without substance. He also says that there was no attempt to seek a response from him before the article went to press. I shall refer your question to the minister. If he has anything further to add, I will advise you accordingly.