AN interstate stoush over water trading intensified yesterday as NSW said it would join Victoria in imposing a four per cent limit on sales, despite two federal agencies demanding the immediate removal of all trade restrictions.
The Australian Financial, NSW has legislated to limit sales although South Australia is challenging Victoria's trading cap in the High Court.
South Australia Premier Mike Rann accused Victoria of "placing a handbrake on the whole reform of the River Murray", after the National Water Commission and the Productivity Commission both said the 4pc cap should be lifted.
NSW Water Minister Phil Costa said NSW would also limit the sale of water rights from its farmers. His spokeswoman said it was consistent with the National Water Initiative.
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