Page 706 - Week 05 - Wednesday, 5 July 1989
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quite aware that that is a very risky undertaking, as was the release of the forward estimates. Whenever one puts out a document like that into the public arena, one invites comment, dissent, and criticism. That is a risk we are prepared to take in the interests of obtaining a broad view of the priorities that the ACT community places on its budget. It is, after all, the ACT people's budget.
Following the release of that broad budget strategy in July, which will most certainly be available to the Opposition and to other parties, the Government would be looking to bring forward the budget itself in September. So there is quite some period of time allowed for full debate on the issues in the budget and on the Government's suggested strategy, as outlined in its July paper. I can give an undertaking that there will be the fullest possible consultation on all aspects of the budget and that most certainly the other parties will be involved in that consultation.
I put it to the Assembly that it would be foolhardy of me to do otherwise. It is quite clear that the Government cannot ram through a budget, as some members on the other side of this house have sought to ram through legislation, without the support of at least one or two other groups within this Assembly. It is essential to our operation that we do consult and reach some agreement on the budget, and that will be undertaken.
MR KAINE: I ask a supplementary question. That was a very lengthy and evasive answer. Can I assume, Chief Minister, that although you have claimed here to have initiated such a system, at this stage you have consulted with nobody on the budget?
MS FOLLETT: Mr Speaker, I believe I have answered that question, and I - - -
Mr Kaine: No, you have not.
MS FOLLETT: As I have said, the first step in our process was to release the forward estimates. They were released to all parties.
Mr Kaine: Releasing a document is consultation; is that what you are saying?
MR SPEAKER: Order!
MS FOLLETT: Shall I give the whole answer again? Is that what you want?
Mr Kaine: Answer my question. May I ask, Mr Speaker, that the question be answered.
MR SPEAKER: Give a concise answer, if you can, Chief Minister or take the question on notice.
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