Fed: Gillard says Medibank sale will produce premium hikes

AAP General News (Australia)
04-04-2006
Fed: Gillard says Medibank sale will produce premium hikes

Labor is tipping a major hike in private health insurance premiums .. when Medibank
Private is sold off.

Opposition health spokeswoman JULIA GILLARD says she wouldn't be surprised if the government
gives assurances it'll approve future premium increases .. before it puts Australia's
biggest health fund on the market.

Health Minister TONY ABBOTT hinted at the weekend the sale of Medibank Private is imminent
.. saying competition .. not government ownership .. will lead to better services.

Ms GILLARD's told ABC radio the sale could actually reduce competition in the private
health insurance sector.

AAP RTV mb/maur/jmt

KEYWORD: MEDIBANK (CANBERRA)

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