Senator CONROY (Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity) (9:59 PM) —Perhaps I could indicate that I called, prior to the sale of Telstra—as was an agreed outcome with all the national competition reforms—for a Productivity Commission inquiry prior to the sale of an asset. That was actually something the Howard government refused to do, which is why I have always enjoyed the demands from those opposite that the Productivity Commission be involved in the NBN debate. They specifically refused to comply.

Senator Birmingham —You asked me for that.

Senator CONROY —I asked for it prior to the sale, so I am quite comfortable supporting the position on the agreement.

Senator Birmingham —Why did you change your position then?

Senator CONROY —I have a completely considered position: prior to sale, there should have been an inquiry. But you were a complete hypocrite on this.

Progress reported.

Sitting suspended from 10.00 pm to 9.00 am

Friday, 25 March 2011

The PRESIDENT (Senator the Hon. John Hogg) took the chair at 9 am and read prayers and made an acknowledgement of country.