Costa threatens to quit as privatisation push fails
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Considering future: NSW Treasurer Michael Costa (AAP: Tracey Nearmy, file photo)
New South Wales Treasurer Michael Costa says he is thinking about quitting politics as his electricity privatisation plans head for certain defeat in State Parliament today.
NSW Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell has confirmed the Coalition will vote against the sell-off plan today.
"Mr Iemma's proposed sale fails the public interest test," he said.
Before the debate got underway, Mr Costa told the ABC the defeat of the legislation would make him consider his future.
"If these things are not to be undertaken ... I'm not just talking about electricity but other reforms, certainly there's no role for me in the New South Wales Parliament," he said.
"I'll make that decision myself."
Despite opposing Labor's plans, Mr O'Farrell said the Coalition would like to privatise electricity in the future.
"We will set about detailing an energy plan for the people of New South Wales that they can decide on at the next election," he said.
Mr Costa said that plan would not be backed by the ALP.
"The State Government's policy will not be to support that. This is over as far as the Labor Party is concerned," he said.
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