Qld: Independents look at alliance

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Qld: Independents look at alliance

By Paul Osborne

BRISBANE, Feb 17 AAP - Queensland independent MPs will next week consider forming aloose alliance.

Dorothy Pratt, who represents the Kingaroy-based seat of Nanango, has floated the ideaof informal working groups involving the six independents in state parliament.

Ms Pratt said today the groups would aim to cover government portfolio areas.

"We have received terrific feedback here from people saying it's about time and tobeat big boys we must work together, but don't form a party," Ms Pratt told AAP today.

"The government has so much help available to them that when you look at what is availableto independents it's almost like David against Goliath.

"I think you will find, in due course, David will grow in strength and will one dayput a huge challenge towards the government."

Ms Pratt said she believed the state election, due by May next year, would lead tomore independents being elected, which would increase the need for closer ties.

"People are fed up with the yes men in government," Ms Pratt said.

"All talk, no action, with a smile - that is what the Premier is doing."

Political commentator Associate Professor Ian Ward said independent alliances had beensuccessful in other state parliaments, such as Victoria's.

"There is a recognition that if you want to be across all issues you have to work together,"

Prof Ward said.

AAP pjo/sc/rsm/ts

KEYWORD: INDEPENDENT QLD