Wayne Swan (Lilley, Australian Labor Party, Treasurer) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the member for his very important question. We see carbon pricing as one of those essential investments in capacity which is going to grow this country in the Asian century. It is going to drive massive investment in renewable energy in this country, which is precisely what is required. For any country to be a first-rate First World economy in the 21st century, you have got to put in place carbon pricing, particularly to drive investment in renewable energy. And that is exactly what is going on: right across the region massive investments have been made in renewable energy. That is so important for the future of our country. This carbon pricing scheme that we have put in place is absolutely essential—as essential as investments in education and training and skills. It will drive innovation—

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