MPs to debate asset sales

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Brisbane Times

Queensland

Queensland backbenchers are yet to see the final Costello report on the state's finances but Treasurer Tim Nicholls warns any opponents that asset sales or massive tax hikes are the only two options.

Energy Minister Mark McArdle has already spoken out against selling electricity assets, which the report says would clear almost half the state's debt and return the state's triple A credit rating.

It also recommends selling the Gladstone and Townsville ports.Mr Nicholls warned that the report recommends either selling assets or ''massive increases in fees, taxes and charges.''

''Those are the two options which are presented if we want to maintain Queenslanders' standard of living,'' he said.

''That's the debate we have to have in the community.''

Only the 26-page executive summary of the 1000-page plus report was publicly released on Friday.

Former federal treasurer Peter Costello has given Mr Nicholls the full report but it's yet to be passed on to backbenchers.

Mr Nicholls says he'll brief MPs in Monday's cabinet meeting but wouldn't reveal if there are already rumblings in the ranks.

“There are obviously the areas around the sale of government businesses which are going to generate a lot of debate… but I think there is a lot of good work in there that I think MPs are appreciative of, and understand and support.

“We'll have that debate in the party room, we'll have it in cabinet, and we will take our time.”

Mr Nicholls says the whole of Queensland needs to be part of the debate.

The full report and its 155 recommendations is due to be released publicly within two months, along with the government's response.

AAP