VIC: Liberal MP told he can t debate with ALP opponent

AAP General News (Australia)
08-30-1999
VIC: Liberal MP told he can t debate with ALP opponent

A Victorian Liberal MP has been banned from debating with an Opposition colleague, despite
Premier JEFF KENNETT saying last week all such proposals would be considered.

HURTLE LUPTON, MP for Knox, says he has been asked to participate in a live radio debate
with Mitcham MP TONY ROBINSON, but the plan was knocked back by the premier's media office.

He says he is disappointed, but it is a team game and the premier is the coach who makes
the rules and with all adhering to them.

Opposition leader STEVE BRACKS, in calling the premier a control freak, says it is an
outrageous gag and he thought Mr KENNETT would have had more confidence in Mr LUPTON.

Mr KENNETT has repeatedly refused to debate with Mr BRACKS but said last week he would
consider proposals for debates between candidates and ministers.

AAP RTV kmh/er/wz/jn

KEYWORD: POLLVIC DEBATES (MELBOURNE)

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