Flying in face of budget’s role

I AM indebted to Bob Brice, ( TB 28/ 06/ 17), for his unbiased explanation as to why the Member for Mundingburra found it necessary to use the State Government’s eightseater jet to convey the budget news swiftly to Townsville.

I understand that the operating cost of the jet is approximately $ 2500 per hour and would have been required for around six hours.

Did she not realise that while she was waiting for the chauffeur to take her to the airport, the Budget was already being disseminated on the radio, TV and other media outlets. By the time she landed in Townsville, the Budget was old news.

In an environment of austerity, the judicious use of monies by governments is paramount. It is hard to believe that delivering old news, at an about a cost of $ 15,000 can be seen as value for money. A cynical person might think that the Premier, with an eye towards the forthcoming election, realised that her underperforming minister needed some exposure.

With recent polls in mind she has sent her on a joyride north to at least seem to be doing something and to remind voters of her existence. K. HEUIR,

Garbutt.