Vic: Fed coalition split over Essendon airport, Bracks

AAP General News (Australia)
08-16-2000
Vic: Fed coalition split over Essendon airport, Bracks

Victorian Premier STEVE BRACKS says the federal coalition appears split on the fate
of Essendon Airport outside Melbourne.

Mr BRACKS says he will seek clarification on the federal government's policy towards
the north suburban airfield following a report it intends retaining it as an airport.

A report in The Australian says Deputy Prime Minister and National Party leader JOHN
ANDERSON is behind a campaign to ensure the commonwealth asset remains an airport.

Mr ANDERSON'S Victorian colleagues have seized on the article as a victory for country
communities who rely on Essendon as a base for regional carriers.

But the state government wants the airport closed and has cited advice from Liberal
Finance Minister JOHN FAHEY that the commonwealth wants it sold without conditions.

AAP RTV pjb/jlw/wz/jn

KEYWORD: ESSENDON (MELBOURNE)

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