To put it bluntly, it’s about a company granting favours and privileges to a section of the community ( pollies) who have the power to regulate it and it’s competition . And when you’re talking about being the opposition spokesman for transport ( potential minister) and then the Prime Minister it should be a big deal, legality not.
imagine if a health company gave the health minister privileges such as CL does ( Free wining and dining),
if you can’t see this issue here, I suggest you read the book and it’s entirety.