13-August-2009
Portfolio Media Releases, The Economy, Emissions Trading Scheme
The defeat of the Government’s emissions trading Bill occurred because the Government hasn’t got it right – in its current form, the Government’s scheme will export jobs and emissions, doing little or nothing for the environment.
The Government’s Bill is friendless. Every non –Government Senator today voted against the Bill – the Greens, the Independents and the Coalition Senators. Serious amendments are required to get the Bill right.
There is no reason to re-introduce the legislation until after the world meets in Copenhagen in December. It is commonsense.
If the Government re-introduces this Bill without the benefit of developments in the United States and at Copenhagen, then it will confirm that the Government is intent on playing politics with this vital policy.
“The Rudd Government’s proposed ETS, had it been allowed to pass the Senate today, would have sent thousands of regional jobs overseas and increased household electricity bills by an additional $240 compared to the Coalition commissioned model released earlier this week.
“The Rudd Government, in its arrogance, has been so politically motivated to pass this Bill through the Senate today, that it has bluntly dismissed any alternative proposals or improvements, refusing to engage in discussions with the Coalition over the biggest deliberate structural change in Australia’s history.
The Coalition will continue to work constructively, working with industry and green groups to find solutions to the serious flaws in the Government’s Bill, flaws that will see Australia export jobs and emissions.
Media Contact: Nick Xerakias, 0410 417 173