Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Finance and Deregulation) Share this | Hansard source

We have previously made very clear that we will ensure that any international offsets which are purchased under our scheme will meet the appropriate standards as provided. We will ensure that there are proper regulatory mechanisms in place. I have to say that the attitude of the opposition on this issue is one of the most economically irresponsible aspects of their policies at this time. This is an opposition which are seriously saying to Australian business, 'We want to increase the costs of reducing your pollution, because we want to run a scare campaign about international permits.' It is extraordinary. Those liberals on the other side, who believe in trade and open economy, should hang their heads in shame at the sort of rhetoric that is coming out of Mr Abbott's mouth and Senator Abetz— (Time expired)