The thought that they should somehow be treated differently to the rest of the working population only serves to reinforce the worst stereotypes about Canberra, that it is removed from the realities faced by the everyday punter.

The ACT Government and the National Capital Authority are right to agitate for the change, establishing a joint standing committee to examine parking issues in the Parliamentary Zone.

ACT Liberal senator Gary Humphries says no paid parking should be introduced until bus services are improved.

It's a chicken and egg argument. Fewer people on the buses mean fewer services. If public servants truly cannot stand the thought of paying for parking, they will make the move to buses and more services are likely to result.

There seems to be some wringing of hands over how tourists will react because the paid parking will take in the areas where major institutions are located such the National Gallery and Questacon.

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times