GST split taxes amigos’ relationship

The Federal Liberal Government’s self-proclaimed three amigos, Brett Whiteley, Andrew Nikolic and Eric Hutchinson, are hopelessly divided on the issue of the GST.

Deputy Labor Leader Michelle O’Byrne says Mr Whiteley is backing an extension to the tax.

“Brett Whiteley wants the base of the GST broadened while his amigo in Bass wants no change,” Ms O’Byrne said.

“Is the band breaking up?

“Where does Eric Hutchinson stand on the issue? Whose side will he take if the amigos split permanently?

“How can we be confident that Tasmania’s interests will be protected in this debate when our elected Liberal representatives are hopelessly divided?”
Ms O’Byrne said the Tasmanian Liberal Government also needed to state clearly where it stands on the issue.

“What does Mr Whiteley’s former Braddon colleague Jeremy Rockliff think about the GST being applied to fresh food?

“And are Peter Gutwein and Will Hodgman prepared to get tough and stand up to other Liberal premiers who want to steal Tasmania’s share?

“Any change to the way GST is distributed is very likely to hurt Tasmania’s ability to fund crucial services like health and education.”
Michelle O’Byrne MP Shadow Education Minister