No GST review, says Neal

Labor candidate for Robertson Ms Belinda Neal said that conclusions drawn from the comments she made recently on local radio regarding the GST were incorrect.

"I gave the impression that Labor plans to review the GST formula if we were to win Government other than through the Independent Grants Commission," Ms Neal said.

'This is incorrect.

"Labor opposes any increase in the GST rate, expansion of the GST base or changes to the process for distributing the GST," Ms Neal said.

Ms Neal said Labor's position on the GST was clear with Mr Rudd on the record saying no review of the GST would take place except through the grants commission, at it presently occurs.

Ms Neal said Peter Costello was the only politician to ever advocate expanding the GST.

"He's always wanted to include basic foods in the GST," Ms Neal said.

"If Peter Costello becomes Prime Minister he may finally get his way."

Press release, 24 Oct 2007 Belinda Neal, Labor Candidate for Robertson