CLP calls on Labor to negotiate leaders’ debate, without Territory Alliance

THE CLP has called NT Labor to the table to negotiate when a “leaders’ debate” can be held in the lead up to the August election, sending out an official letter that notably excludes Territory Alliance.

THE Country Liberal Party has called NT Labor to the table to negotiate when a “leaders’ debate” can be held in the lead up to the August election, sending out an official letter that notably excludes Territory Alliance.

CLP director Nadine Jones, in a letter to NT Labor secretary Anthony Brereton sent yesterday, said the party was willing to be flexible on the terms of the debate and would “be happy to negotiate” the place, topics, moderator, audience and questioning format.

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“Leaders’ debates have been a regular fixture in past Territory election campaigns and we believe it’s only fair that the two major party leaders have the opportunity to scrutinise each other in a public environment over a range of policy topics,” the letter stated.

“I look forward to speaking with you as soon as possible about this proposal and hopefully working together to organise a debate some time over the next three weeks.”

Terry Mills, Michael Gunner, Lia Finocchiaro

The debate, as per the letter, is to be between Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro and Chief Minister Michael Gunner and notably excludes any mention of the Territory’s newest party, Territory Alliance and its leader Terry Mills.

Mr Gunner has yet to appear at any public debates so far this election campaign, turning down invitations from the Urban Development Institute of Australia NT, the Minerals Council of Australia NT, the International Business Council NT and the Rotary Club of Darwin.

The CLP believes the debate will only be a worthwhile exercise and “in the spirit of the campaign” if the event is open to “all media” to cover.

It is understood this includes start-up site NT Independent, which Mr Gunner has barred from attending his press conferences and other government media events.

Political hopefuls will have to nominate by noon on Thursday, with the NT Electoral Commission to hold a ballot draw later that day in Darwin (2pm, TCG building) and Alice Springs (2pm, old ANZ Bank building).

Early voting will begin on Monday, August 10.