Treasurer Scott Morrison appeared on the ABC's 7.30 with Leigh Sales on Tuesday night within hours of revealing that the Coalition will claw back more than $2 billion in funds from welfare recipients claiming more than they are entitled to.
Morrison cited that this would be made possible through the use of smarter technology and strategies within the welfare system, adding that the crack down on welfare is a "never ending cycle."
I get to choose the words I use as a politician, you get to use the words you use to put questions and that's how it works.
"The technology we are able to use now is improving and as a result we are able to continuously improve," Morrison said.
Morrison maintained that, under a Labor government, Australia's AAA credit rating would be jeopardised and denied exaggerating the impact of what is, in reality, a small difference in numbers when looking at the overall size of the Australian economy.
However, when it came to his opinions on same-sex marriage, he remained tight-lipped in what would become a heated exchange with Sales.
"My view is, if the plebiscite is carried, nationally, then the legislation should pass...If the plebiscite is not carried then I think that settles the matter," he said.
When pressed to clarify, Morrison echoed the words of Prime Minister Maclolm Turnbull, who has insisted that legislation will sail through parliament if the plebiscite is successful.
"I've said that I will respect the outcome of the plebiscite," he said when asked to be clearer.
"Leigh, I'll use my words, you can use yours and you're not allowed to put words in my mouth...I have said that I will respect the outcome of the plebiscite entirely.
"I get to choose the words I use as a politician, you get to use the words you use to put questions and that's how it works."