Agriculture Minister promises Senate inquiry into live sheep export phase out

Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has promised a Senate inquiry into the phase out of the
live sheep export trade, just hours after an inquiry into the same crucial issue was voted
down in the House of Representatives by Labor.
Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud had earlier moved an urgent motion to try and
stop the phase out of the live sheep export trade and investigate the consequences of
Labor’s reckless decision through a Standing Committee on Agriculture.
The motion was shamefully voted down.
However, Minister Watt then agreed the phase out of live sheep exports was a contentious
issue, telling Senate Estimates today, “it’s Senate inquiries that do legislation inquiries and
I’m sure that will happen here”.
When asked if that meant Minister Watt would guarantee a proper Senate inquiry into the
Export Control Amendment (Ending Live Sheep Exports by Sea) Bill, introduced in the House
of Representatives today, Minister Watt replied “of course there will need to be an inquiry”.
Minister Watt also added he would “of course” expect the inquiry to have a hearing in
Western Australia, adding that would be a “good idea”.
Mr Littleproud welcomed Labor’s backflip on an inquiry, but added Labor was causing
enormous anxiety to the live sheep export industry with its confusing messaging.
“Farmers deserve answers, because Minister Watt is still unable to explain the science
behind closing the industry.
“The transition package of $107 million only includes $64.6 million for sheep producers and
the supply chain.
“The Nationals will always back our farmers and a future Coalition Government will
reinstate the live sheep export trade.”