February 12, 2015
The LNP today released its reply to the “priorities” outlined by Katter’s Australian Party during negotiations, pointing out to the two elected KAP MPs that the party secured “a significantly higher vote” at the election than the ALP.
The LNP letter, signed by Parliamentary leader Lawrence Springborg, rules out leasing or selling government-owned corporations.
It also promises to conduct a referendum on fixed four-year parliamentary terms, give local councils priority for local roads and maintenance projects, and to introduce a Bill to mandate ethanol in fuel.
If KAP MPs Rob Katter and Shane Knuth decide to back the LNP, it will still put the party one vote shy of achieving a majority in the Queensland Parliament.
Despite the fact the Electoral Commission of Queensland has so far only declared results in 75 seats out of 89 (as at 3:30pm) it appears most likely that the ALP will finish with 44 seats, the LNP with 42 seats, KAP with 2, and Independent 1.
Early in the count, Independent Peter Wellington declared he would throw his weight behind the ALP – a decision that was criticised by KAP at the time as being “far too premature” – but which would give Labor the necessary 45-seat majority.
At the time, Mr Wellington said his support was conditional on the basis there was “no illegal activity, no allegations of corruption”. He said it would provide stability to govern Queensland.
KAP MP Mr Katter said this afternoon his party had still not made a decision as to where to put their support, but the LNP was “ahead” in matching KAP priorities, which were released earlier this week.
ALP leader Annastacia Palasczcuk is expected to meet with Governor Paul de Jersey as soon as all seats are declared.
Downloads:
- LNP Letter to KAP (810kb PDF)
- KAP List of Priorities (447kb PDF)
UPDATE 5:30pm: The ECQ has declared the results in 81 seats – ALP 40, LNP 39, KAP 1 and Independent 1
