"For the Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings to say she has no control over Nick McKim's travel indicates she has no control over her government." Coalition Forestry Spokesman Senator Richard Colbeck said.

"Nick McKim is Lara Giddings' Cabinet minister, in her government and is her responsibility.

"Ms Giddings' can and should tell him that he is not permitted to travel overseas as a member of her Cabinet or at taxpayer expense.

"In government John Howard approved or denied all overseas travel for his entire ministry and removed access to study entitlement, it is not a new concept.

"If Mr McKim wants to travel overseas, he should do it on his own time and at his own cost.

"Given he has only just returned to work from six weeks leave he must also justify to the Tasmanian taxpayer why he should have more time off." Senator Colbeck said.

Pictured below: Senator Colbeck with other speakers who addressed the community rally in support of Tasmania's forestry industry at Huonville on Saturday.