Beacon Hill High School Closure

The Hon. Dr ARTHUR CHESTERFIELD-EVANS: My question is directed to the Special Minister of State, representing the Premier. Why did the Premier's Department write to Sue Covey and deny her request for papers on the closure of Beacon Hill High School citing:

… you have not demonstrated the value or benefit to the public of this information, how this information will contribute to the public understanding of the subject outlined, or to what extent the information will be communicated to the public.

Does the Government take the position that citizens who are concerned about the closure of public education facilities and represent a group of similarly concerned citizens have no public interest in their application to find out why a school was closed? Does the last clause imply that their ability to publicise the findings from their freedom of information application are important as to whether they should get the information? Will this information be provided to Mrs Covey, as should happen under the Act?

The Hon. JOHN DELLA BOSCA: I thank the member for his courtesy in providing me with a copy of his question. I am unable to provide an answer, but will consult the Premier and provide the member with an answer as soon as practicable.