Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, Assistant Minister for the Public Service, Assistant Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
PETER STEFANOVIC, HOST: Okay, let's go back to Canberra now. And the Prime Minister has opened the door to potential capital gains tax exemptions for industries other than the tech sector, following widespread blow back. Joining us live this morning, our Tuesday panel, it's the Assistant Minister to the PM, Patrick Gorman, Liberal MP Aaron Violi. Gentlemen, good morning to you. So the policy looks more rudderless by the day, Patrick. Why wasn't all of this work done before the budget?
PATRICK GORMAN, ASSISTANT MINISTER TO THE PRIME MINISTER: I do not agree with that characterisation. A large amount of work was done before the release of the budget, and you can see that in the budget papers. What we've said at the time, and what we've said ever since, is that, of course, we'll consult with those who want to have their voice heard.
The Prime Minister said in question time yesterday that consultations are happening with the National Farmers' Federation, ACCI, Council of Small Business Australia. That is what you would expect after a budget. That is very common.
Of course, we will also have legislation in the parliament this week, which will allow people to see more detail of those measures. That is the appropriate thing. I always believe that the biggest consultative forum that we have is the Australian Parliament, and so, of course, it's up to all of us, myself, Aaron, and everyone else, to put our views forward, but my view is that this is the right measure.
STEFANOVIC: Okay, so if all the work was done, why is there so much confusion over it? Why so many questions?
