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It's political judgment day - maybe

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

© The Cairns Post

 

A decision on who will govern Australia for the next three years is expected today, after Labor, the Coalition and independents agreed to historic parliamentary reforms.

After sealing a deal on changes to the operation of parliament, the country independents revealed their concern that Opposition Leader Tony Abbott did not have the formal support of maverick WA Nationals MP Tony Crook.

But Mr Crook said he would support the Coalition to form a minority government.

"We have been clear throughout the campaign and in the weeks since that because of the mining tax we oppose any Labor-Green government," he said.

Labor needs the votes of two independent MPs to form government, while the Coalition needs the backing of all three - Bob Katter, Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott.

After a day of frantic meetings, Mr Windsor and Mr Oakeshott were due to meet Ms Gillard and Mr Abbott again last night before finalising their decision.

"Depending on how long they take and whether there-s any sticking points, it should be tomorrow (Tuesday)," Mr Windsor said.

The changes to parliament include an independent speaker, an integrity commissioner, more time for MPs' speeches and a greater role for committees.

Yesterday, LNP Leichhardt MP elect Warren Entsch predicted the three country independents would back a federal Labor government.

Mr Entsch believes the former National Party members, will announce their support for Labor soon.

"I think they have painted themselves into a corner and their electors will judge them accordingly," Mr Entsch said.

He accused Prime Minister Julia Gillard of making unrealistic promises to secure the support of the MPs.

"It seems to me that Julia Gillard will promise anything to get power," he said.

Mr Entsch backed the way Opposition Leader Tony Abbott handled negotiations with the trio.

 


Decision day: Independent MPs (from left), Tony Windsor, Rob Oakeshott and Bob Katter are expected to make their decision on Australia's next government today.


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Rated Electoral Division of Leichhardt




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