Martin Ferguson (Batman, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Resources and Energy) Share this | Hansard source

Those cabinet discussions have been and will continue to be robust debate, because the best policy comes out of a free and frank exchange of ideas. I started that process based on my view of the best possible means of assisting consumers in Australia at a very difficult time. As a result of that process, and on the evidence of the ACCC, I was convinced that there was a better way forward. I fully support the decision of the government not only to introduce Fuelwatch but to do everything possible to assist consumers in the short term and also in the medium to long term. This is not just about fuel prices today; this is about out future energy security as a nation in the 21st century. It is something the Howard government neglected over a period of 12 long years. Neglect, neglect, neglect!

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