Bowen Misleads Public over FuelWatch

November 3, 2008

 

The Rudd Government is misleading the public by blaming the Senate for its failure to get its FuelWatch legislation passed on time, said Shadow Consumer Affairs Minister Luke Hartsuyker today (Monday).

The FuelWatch scheme, which requires all retailers to notify their prices in advance and then fixes the price for 24 hours, was due to be implemented on 15 December.  Assistant Treasurer Chris Bowen told the Ten Network that “because of the delays in the Senate, that will be extremely difficult.”   Mr Hartsuyker said the Assistant Treasurer was looking for an escape route.

 

“The legislation was scheduled for debate in the Senate in the week beginning 13 October but the Government prevented it being discussed or voted on.  The Coalition offered its help in getting the measure debated but the Government put non-urgent legislation ahead of FuelWatch,” said Mr Hartsuyker.  “The Government also delayed the Senate Economics Committee inquiry report on the legislation for two weeks.

 

“The reason for these delaying tactics and Chris Bowen’s attempt to shift blame to the Senate is that he knows he can’t get the legislation passed because he has not got the support of all the Independent Senators.  The evidence given to the Senate Economics Committee clearly showed that FuelWatch will reduce competition by driving independents out of the market and will lead to higher prices.   Kevin Rudd and Chris Bowen should face reality.  This is bad legislation.  FuelWatch is all about the Government’s need to be seen to be doing something without actually addressing the problem.

 

“They should face the facts, admit that FuelWatch is a fraud and throw in the towel on a scheme that will mean motorists paying more at the bowser.”

 

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