George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

What I know, Senator Waters—because, like you, not being a scientist—is that there is a debate in the scientific community about the cause of coral bleaching. Senator Waters, it is possible to do both. It is possible to cut emissions while, at the same time, developing our coal industry, and we are doing both. We are cutting emissions by 50 to 52 per cent per capita up to 2030. At the same time, we are very proud to be encouraging the development of our great mining industry, including our coal industry. Senator Waters, you obviously do not spend any time in Central Queensland; I do, Senator Waters. If you spent any time in Central Queensland, you would know how offensive to those people your suggestion that their great economic prospect on the horizon should be closed down must sound. (Time expired)