TI Ltd has the following tax balances at the end of its first financial period: current tax liability $12 000, deferred tax liability $15 000, and deferred tax asset $18 000. There is no tax on items of other comprehensive income. What recognise as income tax expense in its first financial period?

a. $9000 [= $12 000 + $15 000 $18 000]

b. $15 000 [= $12 000 $15 000 + $18 000]

c. $27 000 [= $12 000 + $15 000]

d. $30 000 [= $12 000 + $18 000]