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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 8 Hansard (27 August) . . Page.. 2511 ..

MR HUMPHRIES (continuing):

I think we have all heard stories about the problems encountered in that particular exercise. The ANU Students Association is a body which administers about $250,000 of student money. All students have to contribute to that fund because membership is compulsory. It is a concern that there should be allegations of electoral inconsistencies - that is perhaps too mild a word; "electoral fraud" might be a better phrase - in respect of last year's elections at the association.

Mr Berry: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. What have the goings on at the Australian National University to do with Mr Humphries?

MR SPEAKER: I am waiting to hear that.

MR HUMPHRIES: Mr Speaker, I can answer that question. I am the Attorney-General and Minister for Police in respect of - - -

Mr Berry: Mr Speaker - - -

MR HUMPHRIES: If I could answer the point of order first, Mr Speaker - - -

MR SPEAKER: Just a moment, Mr Berry. You asked the question and Mr Humphries is explaining it. That is reasonable.

MR HUMPHRIES: I am responsible for the investigation and resolving of criminal acts in the Territory, and allegations that there may have been criminal acts committed in respect of Students Association elections are my concern no less than they are those of people at the university.

Mr Berry: I again raise a point of order. Mr Humphries might tell us what action he is taking in respect of it.

MR SPEAKER: Order! Just give him a chance to answer the question.

Mr Whitecross: He has not gone anywhere near a crime yet.

MR SPEAKER: Please!

MR HUMPHRIES: Mr Speaker, if I might be allowed to continue: For the benefit of any members who do not know the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident, 146 illegal ballot papers in the 1996 Students Association election were cast in favour of a candidate endorsed, I understand, by the Labor Students Club. I wish to advise the Assembly that I have already asked the Australian Federal Police to investigate these matters. I have written to the vice-chancellor of the ANU to ask him what action he intends to take against any student found to have been involved. I received his response recently and he informed me that he would not be able to take any further action.

Mr Berry: I just think you are a joke.

MR HUMPHRIES: Clearly, those opposite - - -

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