Berry Moves On Ambiguity

Wayne Berry - Opposition Spokesperson on Employment

Media Statement - 29 August 2001

Labor Shadow Employment Minister Wayne Berry has moved to remove ambiguity from the Territory Owned Corporations Act following months of speculation about the legality of the Government's sale of part of holdings at the Williamsdale Quarry.

Mr Berry's move will close off avenues the Humphries Government says are available to avoid scrutiny of the ACT Legislative Assembly before sales of assets like the Williamsdale Quarry part sell off.

"My bill sends a strong message that Labor is opposed to asset sales and is moving to close off sales of assets by stealth," Mr Berry said.

"Under the Government's assessments of legislation a $3.8 million asset sale is not a disposal.

"The Government thinks that it is all right to avoid Assembly scrutiny because in its view a $3.8 million deal is 'not substantial' - who do they think they are kidding.

"I stand by my claim that the Government's move is unlawful however it is clear that the Government will continue to ignore the spirit of the TOC Act to avoid scrutiny by the Assembly.

"Who will forget the 1998 election where the Liberals promised that the sale of Actew was not on the agenda but just weeks after the election moved to sell it. In the lead up to the 2001 election it is important to show that the Liberals 'sell, sell, sell' mentality is alive and well.

"Under the legislation as it now stands the Government thinks it can sell even more without reference to the Assembly. My legislation will put an end to these claims," Mr Berry concluded.