Fed: Williams says Macfarlane shouldn't go

AAP General News (Australia)
08-24-2001
Fed: Williams says Macfarlane shouldn't go

CANBERRA, Aug 24 AAP - Small Business Minister Ian Macfarlane should not have to stand
aside as minister over the latest GST controversy, Attorney-General Daryl Williams said
today.

The opposition has said that Mr Macfarlane and Treasurer Peter Costello misled parliament
over their knowledge of a possible breach of GST laws.

Liberal Party documents released by Labor show that Mr Macfarlane's Groom Federal Electorate
Council (FEC) was concerned it breached GST laws in an arrangement to keep tax paid on
a fundraiser for Mr Costello.

In parliament yesterday Mr Costello denied knowing about the alleged arrangement, while
Mr Macfarlane described the allegations as a wild goose chase.

Last night Mr Costello confirmed his office informed Mr Macfarlane of the complaints,
and Mr Macfarlane said the issue had nothing to do with him but that he did speak to Mr
Costello's office when concerns were raised.

Mr Williams said he did not accept that Mr Macfarlane should no longer continue as minister.

"Well, Mr Macfarlane has given his explanation. The Treasurer has given his explanation,"

Mr Williams told ABC radio.

"I've got nothing to add and I wouldn't accept for a minute that Mr Macfarlane has to go.

"He's given an explanation and I think the public should accept it."

AAP lm/ldj

KEYWORD: TAX WILLIAMS

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