The Hon. M. J. GALLACHER: My question is directed to the Treasurer. Does he agree with the comments of business journalist Terry McCrann in today’s Daily Telegraph that "Watkins attack on petrol prices is just plain stupid" and "After his initial foray on Tuesday, [the Minister came back] even dumber on Wednesday [on petrol prices]"? Does the Treasurer agree with Mr McCrann’s comments or with Mr Watkins stupid antics?

The Hon. M. R. EGAN: The difference between the Opposition and the Government on this issue is that the Government believes in a fair go for country and regional New South Wales and the Opposition does not. The Opposition believes that people who live in the country should be fleeced when they buy petrol. The Government is on the side of consumers in the bush - and proudly on their side. It is absolutely disgraceful that the Leader of the Opposition is supporting higher petrol prices in the bush.