PUPs told not to bite Queensland families

Families across Queensland would have around $170 more in their pocket in 2014-15 if Labor’s carbon tax was abolished.

Energy Minister Mark McArdle welcomed the Federal Government’s reintroduction of legislation to axe the carbon tax and repeated calls for all federal MPs and Senators to finally recognise that Australians voted overwhelmingly for its repeal.

“The numbers speak for themselves. If Labor and PUP senators genuinely care about the cost of living pressures faced by families then scrapping the carbon tax should be an absolute no-brainer,” Mr McArdle said.

“It’s encouraging that Clive Palmer has reportedly agreed to finally sit down with Prime Minister Tony Abbott to discuss the repeal, but it would be devastating for families if the member for Fairfax did not immediately move to throw the tax out.

“Labor has inflicted pain on families with the carbon tax and it’s time for Clive Palmer to stand up for Queensland families and heed the loud and clear call from voters to axe the tax.”

Mr McArdle said while the Queensland Government was implementing its strong plan to sort out the mess Labor made of the electricity sector, there was no quick fix.

“Several major electricity retailers have indicated they will remove Labor’s carbon tax from their bills from July 1 in anticipation of its repeal, but have warned it would have to be reinstated if Federal politicians do not get this mess fixed by 18 July 2014,” he said.

“PUP should declare immediately that they will support the repeal of the carbon tax and end the uncertainty and unnecessary cost-of-living pain inflicted on Queensland families and all Australians.”

[ENDS] 24 June 2014

Media Contact: Phil Hind 0437 334 183