Had he said this last week you might even respect the man.
COCKY BASTARDS
Pre-election economic predictions were optimistic: Costello
The Federal Treasurer has revealed he thinks his department's pre-election prediction of economic growth was optimistic.
Peter Costello says the Australian economy will face a number of challenges in the years ahead.
Mr Costello told the 7:30 Report the Treasury Department's prediction that the economy will continue to grow at 3.5 per cent over the next four years is optimistic.
"I am more cautious myself," he said.
The Treasurer says he thinks there are big risks to the economy, including the record price of oil.
"If that were to continue for 12 months or 18 months that could have a very material effect on global growth," he said.
"It could have a very material effect on Australian growth."
He says that is a challenge the Government will have to face over the next three years.
Promises
Mr Costello also says the Government will be working with the current Senate to try and implement its election promises before July next year.
From July 1 the new Senate comes into force and it is expected there will be a Government majority.
That would allow a backlog of Coalition policies to pass without the need for opposition or minor party support.
Mr Costello has told the 7:30 Report he hopes the Government's election policies will pass before then.
"We'll try and work with that Senate to try and implement our election policies," he said.
"I think we owe it to the Australian people to implement our election policies and ... the good thing is we might actually be able to get our own legislation - as promised to the Australian people - enacted."
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200410/s1219504.htm
