Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Independents seek Treasury costing advice from Coalition

Updated at 10:15 am on 26 August 2010

As part of their negotiations to form a new government, the independents Bob Katter, Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott want information about the budget impact of both Labor and the Coalition's policies.

The Caretaker Prime Minister Julia Gillard says she is pleased to provide Treasury estimates for Labor's policies.

But Mr Abbott says Treasury should not be providing that advice on the Coalition's plans.

He says the Coalition will instead provide its own costings and extensive access to shadow ministers.

Mr Windsor says that position is not acceptable and both sides should be costed by the same person.

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