Vic: Speculation of early election prompts opposition challenge

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Vic: Speculation of early election prompts opposition challenge

MELBOURNE, Feb 14 AAP - Amid continued speculation of an early state election, theVictorian opposition has challenged Premier Steve Bracks to bring on the poll.

Opposition Leader Denis Napthine issued the challenge as he unveiled a minor reshuffleof his shadow cabinet, a reaction to the shock ministerial shakeup announced by Mr Bracksearlier in the week.

But Victorian independent Susan Davies, a key player in allowing Mr Bracks to formgovernment in September 1999, tried to put the brakes on the push for an early election.

Ms Davies warned Mr Bracks that calling an early poll would be a betrayal of the agreementthat handed him power.

Under the agreement with Ms Davies and fellow independents Craig Ingram and RussellSavage, Mr Bracks can only call an early poll if crucial legislation is blocked in theupper house or if he falls out with the independents.

The earliest possible election date is November 30 this year although it could be heldup to a year later.

Mr Brack's cabinet reshuffle this week was widely interpreted as a strategic move toprepare his team, riding high in public opinion polls, for a state election.

AAP bja/ph/sb

KEYWORD: LIBERALS VIC DAYLEAD