KAP’s Ray Hopper, Rob Katter and Shane Knuthjoined the four independent MPs, saying they were united against the sale or lease of strategic state-owned assets and would fight together to prevent the move.

State member for Mount Isa Rob Katter said the united front was to show Queenslanders there was an alternative.

‘‘We understand that the people of Queensland are against asset sales and long-term leasing which is why we are here today to formally commit to this accord against the selling of Queensland’s assets,’’ he said.

‘‘We want to show the people of Queensland that there is a very viable alternative in the KAP and independents in the new government and by voting for us, you can guarantee no assets will be sold.’’ 

Mr Katter said assets included rail assets – a 10 per cent interest in Aurizon, all Queensland Rail tracks and infrastructure. Power assets such as Powerlink, Energex and Ergon Energy, the distribution and transmission network; all essential ports, roads and bridges plus the privatisation of services are all up for grabs,’’ he said. ‘‘The government is definitely not ruling out selling or leasing to foreign companies, and you can be sure they won’t return half the dividends back into regional electricity subsidies as happens now.’’

SunWater industrial pipelines are also on the table for privatisation.

Members of Parliament who represented rural electorates should think twice before voting for asset sales and leases, Mr Katter said.

‘‘The sale or lease of the Port of Townsville and the Port of Gladstone will impact mining companies and Burdekin cane farmers as well as graziers, as all commodities freighted through the ports will have increased rates slapped on to make money for the new owners,’’ he said.

Mr Katter said the sale or lease of the Port of Townsville and the Great Northern Rail link would jeopardise rail jobs from Mount Isa to Townsville.