The newly re-elected Premier of Queensland, Peter Beattie, who lost so-called “sugar seats” in the election two days ago, has been quick to criticise the Free Trade Agreement with the United States announced today.
Text of media release from the Premier of Queensland, Peter Beattie.
Sour free trade deal means Howard must deliver $120M to sugar industry
Premier Peter Beattie is bitterly disappointed that the Federal Coalition left the sugar industry out of the Free Trade Agreement with the United States.
“Prime Minister Howard says the deal is “fantastic” but it is in fact a betrayal of the Queensland sugar industry,” Mr Beattie said.
“It has shattered hopes held by the sugar industry and the Queensland Government for fairer access to a market of 280 million people.