PM Transcripts

AUS~ IRAIAAh\
PRHf M ISTER
FOR MEDIA 26 May 1983
I am disappointed that again the Tasmanian Premier has chosen
to substitute invective for constructive discussion.
By his attitude Mr Gray has deliberately prejudiced the
interests of Tasmanians.
The only issue raised around which there was no agreement
was the up-grading of Wynard Airport.
The Federal Government's attitude to other programs raised in
Mr Gray's letter of May 20 is that existing projects will be
given fair consideration in the Budget context.
On-going projects of merit will be continued and Commonwealth
officials were instructed today to immediately begin talks with
their Tasmanian counterparts on matters which need further
consideration. In relation to the Gordon-below-Franklin dam, the Federal
Government indicated that it was willing, without prejudice
to the interests of Tasmanians, to identify, in conjunction
with Tasmanian officials, employment-generating projects for
which planning can start as soon as possible.
At the insistence of the Federal Government discussions between
a Federal Minister and Commonwealth officials and Tasmanian
Government representatives will be held next week.
It is also clear that Mr Gray is afflicted with the conservative
disease of not being able to speak honestly.
The Craigbourne irrigation scheme will be considered im. r. ediately
by Commonwealth officials and at this stage the Commonwealth is
very favourably disposed towards the project.
It is possible that it could be included within the National
Water Resources Program.