Kevin Rudd (Griffith, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

I would suggest that this conclusion is definitive. It says:

The purpose of this econometric analysis has been to satisfy the ACCC that the introduction of the FuelWatch scheme nationally would not, based on the experience in Western Australia, lead to consumers paying higher prices for petrol.

From econometric analysis on a conservative basis, the ACCC can say that there is no evidence that FuelWatch led to any increase in prices, it appears to have resulted in a small price decrease overall.

The government has been entirely mindful of this advice in framing its position on FuelWatch. It is a contentious matter for debate—we recognise that. But we have turned to the same agency that the former Treasurer turned to in seeking advice on this matter in the first place. If those opposite contest that that is what the former Treasurer was saying when he made those remarks back in June-July last year, I suggest they raise it with the member for Higgins.

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