Fed: Beazley would consider plan for army to rent weapons

AAP General News (Australia)
04-12-2000
Fed: Beazley would consider plan for army to rent weapons

Opposition Leader KIM BEAZLEY says he would consider a plan for Australia's military
to rent jet fighters and warships.

But he says he was in favour of keeping production of military equipment on shore considering
Australia's ability in the area.

Yesterday, the Australian Defence Force moved a step closer to virtual privatisation
where key equipment may be owned and even operated by private contractors.

New defence policy is to require all new procurement projects to consider options for
private financing rather than immediately go to outright purchase.

Under the plan, the defence force would consider leasing jet fighters and warships
from foreign companies.

Mr BEAZLEY says Labor will look at all propositions that keep capabilities up and lessen
the cost but he is in favour of building equipment in Australia, as much as possible.

AAP RTV eg/mfh/wz/jn

KEYWORD: PRIVATISATION BEAZLEY (CANBERRA)

2000 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.