Coal is King - FULL ARTICLE

Excerpt from Sumpton’s Gold Rush Gazette - Friday 20th of September 2024

Bob Katter MP (photo provided by Bob Katter MP)

KAP Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has stressed the importance of coal in Australia in the wake of Labor’s latest flip flop on fossil fuels.

Mr Katter reacted positively to the ALP Minister for Northern Development and Resources, Madeleine King's recent promise that coal would not be abolished by the current government, but questioned her motive.

"This is an astounding comeback from an ALP Government that has been hell-bent on destroying the coal industry to pander to inner-city voters," said Mr Katter.

"Finally, they appear to be reading the room.

“Coal provides nearly $100 billion to Australia's economy, generates nearly 50% of Australia's electricity and provides more than 300,000 jobs."

Mr Katter pointed out Labor’s unavoidable history of demonising the coal industry, negatively impacting many Australians.

"This is a government that has, time and time again, had a blinkered approach to achieving a net zero economy regardless of the cost and consequences,” he said.

“To them, 'coal' has become a dirty word with logic thrown out the window.

"Maybe the Albanese Government has had an epiphany and recognised the essential benefits of a thriving Australian coal industry.

"Hopefully, this is not simply rhetoric to grab some pre-election votes from those feeling the pain of rising electricity costs.

"The Government should not continue down the path of creating bureaucracy after bureaucracy to plan and strategise for a net zero future where the lights go out, heating and cooling become a luxury, and nobody can afford to charge their EVs or mobiles.

"Without 'Coal as King' – our future is bleak."