Tanner defends govt's travel expenses_6508

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Tanner defends govt's travel expenses
"I think you can say the same thing about Kevin Rudd," Mr Turnbull told the Nine Network.
"It's interesting that the government chose to reveal ... this travel on the day of the budget when it wouldn't be noticed, so they're clearly ashamed of it,You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login," Mr Turnbull said.
Mr Tanner said the winter parliamentary break was a good time for MPs to visit other countries and have "serious discussions".
But Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull poked fun at the government,You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login, saying it had a penchant for overseas trips.
The most lavish frequent fliers were Environment Minister Peter Garrett, who spent $226,000 on travel to Chile and the US,You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login, and Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who spent $158,You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login,000 going to the UK, the US and Singapore.
"These trips are necessary," he told Network Ten.
The Liberal leader leapt to the defence of Mr Howard and his travel budget, saying he had been prime minister for almost 12 years.
"The benchmark, which has been established for the previous government, we've acted within that," Mr Rudd said.
Mr Turnbull referred to a popular quote about former prime minister Gough Whitlam - that he "crossed the international dateline so often he doesn't know whether he's AM or PM".
But Treasurer Wayne Swan lived up to his rhetoric on the need to spend less in tough economic times, spending a modest $13,000 on international travel last winter.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said his government's travel habits were no worse than former prime minister John Howard, who he accused of spending $20 million on overseas sojourns.
Documents tabled in parliament last Tuesday - the day the federal budget was handed down - reveal ministers splurged $2 million on travel last winter.
He also wanted to know why the documents revealing the government's travel expenditure was released on budget night.
"I think Kevin Rudd will top the travel stakes very quickly."
The documents show Sport Minister Kate Ellis spent $75,000 attending the Beijing Olympics and Trade Minister Simon Crean was busy last winter with 26 days overseas costing $75,000.
The federal government has defended itself for spending $2 million of taxpayers' money on overseas trips,You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login, saying they're necessary.
Finance Minister Lindsay Tanner said ministers needed to travel overseas.