Minerals Resource Rent Tax still won't give WA a fair share, Holt

Author: Colin Holt
Published on: 05-July-2010

President of The Nationals WA, Colin Holt, has expressed his concerns over the newly announced Minerals Resource Rent Tax (MRRT), saying it does nothing to reverse the rip-off in WA.

Mr Holt said while WA would be one of the largest contributors to the MRRT, he said it was unlikely that we would get our fair share in return from the Federal Government.

“No matter what they call this tax, the reality is that money raised from WA resources will be spent on projects in other states,” Mr Holt said.” The numbers in Federal Caucus, dominated by eastern states politicians, will make sure of that.”

“WA will contribute significantly more towards the MRRT than other states. West Australians should be demanding a guarantee that this new tax will not take over our State royalties and demand a guarantee that WA will get its fair share.”

Also of concern is that in the future the MRRT may eventually replace State Royalties. While this cannot happen unless agreed to by the State Government, it puts WA in a precarious position if the State Branches of the major political parties do a deal with their federal mates.

“Can we expect the State Labor Party machine to stand up for WA, or will they tow the party line and give up our State royalties if and when they are elected?”