THE first major face-to-face challenge of the State election campaign has been locked in with Premier Lara Giddings and Liberal Leader Will Hodgman facing the Tasmanian business community in mid-February.

The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) successfully negotiated with both leaders to participate in an open question and answer luncheon at Wrest Point, Hobart on Thursday 13 February.

TCCI CEO Michael Bailey urged members and the business community to take advantage of the opportunity to question the leaders and seek clarification of policies and dissect new policies.

“The question and answer luncheon provides the business community with the opportunity to question the two party leaders on all policies, but particularly those relevant to business,” Mr Bailey said.

“It will also help determine who will be the best leader to take our State forward for the next four years, following the State election on 15 March.

“And it lets the leaders know what business expects from the next Government.”

Mr Bailey said questions will be provided in advance by TCCI members and the leaders would also take questions from the floor.

“We don’t believe in talkfests or weasel word answers and I’m grateful that both leaders are committed to delivering meaningful responses,” Mr Bailey said.

Bookings for the event can be made by visiting www.tcci.com.au.