Economy
STATE: Labor caucus meets but no sign of Brenton … Mansell, Kennett blast.
Labor’s caucus has met for the first time since backbencher Brenton Best called for the Premier Lara Giddings to stand aside.
The rebel backbencher did not show up, and the Premier Lara Giddings left through a back door to avoid waiting media.
Other Labor MP’s are not saying whether caucus discussed what to do with Mr Best.
Before going into the meeting, Lyons MP Rebecca White says Mr Best’s comments have been unhelpful.
• Mercury: Time for action Tassie … says Jeff Kennett My question is whether the Tasmanian community understands the seriousness of its situation enough to support radical but exciting reform. Reforms such as abolishing payroll tax for all new businesses that move operations to Tasmania; abolition of the Upper House of Parliament; reduction of the number of Councils from 29 to five; investigating which Government services might be more effectively administered by other bodies or governments. The areas to build on include its natural wilderness attractions and other tourism assets; the promotion and sale of its quality agriculture, horticultural, viticultural and seafood products; the specific promotion and further development of innovation in the arts as led by MONA; the development around Barnbougle of three other world-class golf courses that generate international patronage; the long-term commitment and growth of opportunities that have been generated through Tasmania’s sponsorship with the Hawthorn Football Club. Tasmania has very little gravitas on the mainland. There is no champion of and for Tasmania and it must again punch above its weight to develop its new opportunities.