“The slump in support for Labor in the regions reported in the latest Newspoll indicates the failure of Labor’s ETS,” said The Nationals’ Senator Ron Boswell today. “The Coalition’s two Party preferred vote outside capital cities has jumped to 51% which is higher than that vote at the last election.” “This is good news for the Coalition and points out the policy direction necessary for strong leadership that listens to the concerns of rural and regional voters.”  “Coalition Senators and Members in rural and regional areas have been explaining how the ETS will hurt the regions and the message is getting through.” “The ETS is finished in the bush and any politician who supports it risks losing their seat at the next federal election.” “The ETS represents damage to jobs and business particularly in regional areas and they don’t like it.”  “The Prime Minister has failed to secure support for the ETS in the export heartland of the nation.” “That is not surprising given the extra costs an ETS will add on to every farm and business.” “Despite the gush about G8s and G20s, the recent Pittsburgh meeting did nothing to further confidence that Copenhagen will see all countries agree to binding targets on emissions.” “Rudd’s ETS modelling depends entirely on a coordinated global effort where our trade competitors face similar carbon costs. Without that agreement, Rudd’s ETS puts a carbon premium on all our goods and services. We will be mincemeat in the marketplace.” “The people in rural and regional areas can see this happening and are rightly fearful of what it will mean to their jobs, families and communities.” “The Prime Minister has set in train a rural backlash against ETS supporters. No Party can win government without a strong regional vote.” ENDS