The state's peak timber industry representative body confirmed it would have a four week suspension today.

FIAT chief executive Terry Edwards said it wanted assurance from the Premier and Deputy Premier that working forests would remain under Forestry Tasmania's management before resuming talks.

``It is not acceptable for these forests to be managed by any entity that does not have a statutory commercial role and fiduciary responsibilities,'' Mr Edwards said.

``We cannot accept any outcome whereby the management body are subject to the direction of their political masters.''

Mr Edwards had previously  advised the government of the association's intentions on Friday.

``We have given the government four weeks to resolve the issue, at which time the FIAT membership will re-convene to consider FIAT'S ongoing involvement in the talks.''