Gillard must lead by example on local purchasing
Australian paper manufacturers should take heart from news the Government will require big
investors to use local products and materials.
Timber communities have been concerned about rumblings that Federal Treasury will change the
paper supply contracts for the Department of Human Services and Department of Defence from
local product to cheaper imports.
However, it emerged today that the Government is just weeks away from releasing a plan which
will require big business to favour local products and suppliers.
“It would be incredibly hypocritical if the Government created one set of standards for business
then operated to a completely different set for itself,” Coalition Forestry spokesman Senator
Richard Colbeck said.
“Human Services Minister Senator Kim Carr was actually the former Industry Minister who
presided over the closure of two paper mills Tasmania.
“He should understand only too well the pressures on Australian paper manufacturers and be
scrutinising this decision very carefully.
“Similarly, Stephen Smith should have a watching brief over the supply arrangements for defence.
“Here is a chance for Labor to demonstrate in practical terms the rhetoric they run out on
Australian manufacturing.”
SENATOR THE HON RICHARD COLBECK Senator for Tasmania Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries and Forestry Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation, Industry and Science
