“Reports from Copenhagen that Australia supports a levy on shipping and aviation to assist climate aid for developing countries should be immediately clarified by Minister Wong,” said The Nationals’ Senator Ron Boswell today.

“There is apparently a joint proposal between Australia, Norway, Mexico and the UK that proposes such a levy.” “Australia is a trading nation a long way away from most of our export destinations. If an international levy on shipping is implemented we will suffer far more than other countries. It will be another black mark on our competitiveness as it adds yet another cost to our goods.” “Tourism in Australia will also suffer as flights here will become more expensive than other destinations closer to Europe and North America.” “I asked Minister Wong in Parliament on 15 September whether the government supported this levy policy and she would not give a straight answer.” “A levy on shipping and aviation is not in Australia’s interests. It makes Australia suffer more than our trading partners and competitors. This has never been discussed with the Australian people.” “This proposal to hurt Australian jobs and business has been worked on secretly without open political debate. It is a shocker and shows that the Rudd government can not be trusted to tell Australians what is going on or look after their interests.” “The Rudd government climate policy is designed purely for the world stage. It takes no mind of jobs and business back home.” ENDS