The GST deal is being hailed as a political triumph for the Prime Minister on the one hand and a dog's breakfast of a tax on the other. Both John Howard and Meg Lees have staked their political futures on it. The ANC is certain to win, making Nelson Mandela's successor, Thabo Mbeki, the president. A decade ago, the environment was a key election issue and surveys today show it's still a major public concern. But Australia's green lobby says we're falling behind.
Business though says it is working towards ecological sustainability.
John Howard says no group will be worse off under the GST, but Senator Harradine wont buy that. Critics say the Government is opting out while supporters say it's time for a fundamental change of approach. So far Slobodan Milosevic remains defiant. When it comes to fighting crime the political rhetoric is tough. And can it stop the growing numbers of electronic criminals.