LNP ethanol mandate wins support

7 May 2015 11:51 AMMichael Hart

 

LNP ethanol mandate wins support

 

The Queensland Opposition has brought to a head plans to establish a renewable fuels industry in Queensland.

 

Member for Burleigh Michael Hart MP says the result of the parliamentary debate on Wednesday night puts to an end years of indecision and broken promises from Labor.

 

“It is an issue that has been widely debated for years, but under previous Labor governments had been put on the back burner,” Mr Hart said.

 

“This decision is a practical way to help stimulate regional economic development. It is a win for jobs across Queensland and this will have a flow on effect here on the Gold Coast

“It is also a win for the environment and another example of the LNP getting the balance right.”

 

Ethanol can be used as a fuel for vehicles and is usually blended with petrol to reduce vehicle emissions.

 

“Creating an alternative and stable market for grain, cane and other feed-stocks will help diversify markets for our rural industries,” he said.

 

“It also stimulates employment growth in our regional communities – something this current Labor Government is struggling to achieve.

 

The LNP has acknowledged that there are intricacies and impacts that need to be fully considered before an expanded ethanol producing industry was given the go ahead.

 

“Now the Government has a direction from parliament to release a discussion paper by the end of the month and introduce legislation by the end of the year thanks to the LNP,” Mr Hart said.

 

[ENDS] 7 May 2015