Ian Macdonald (Queensland, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I thank everyone for staying with us. Obviously, it's the highlight of general business today and it's not only a motion from me; it's also from Senator O'Sullivan. The wording got a bit convoluted on the amendment. I seek leave to amend general business notice of motion no. 396.

Leave is not granted.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Senator Macdonald, do you wish to seek formality?

Ian Macdonald (Queensland, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I just cannot understand the Labor Party. They are so base. But, anyhow, I shall then seek leave to treat this matter as a formal motion.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Any objection to this motion being taken as formal? We are only talking about the original motion. There being none, I call Senator Macdonald.

Ian Macdonald (Queensland, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I, and also on behalf of Senator O'Sullivan, move:

That the Senate notes that Australian Governments should not force early retirement of coal-fired power stations in order to meet renewable energy targets.

James McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

James McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The government does not support forced early retirement of coal-fired power stations. The government recognises the importance of maintaining affordable and reliable baseload energy supply and the job security of those employed in the coal power industry. Coal is good for you.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Thank you, Senator McGrath. The question is the motion moved be agreed to. I think the ayes have it—no. I will put the question again; it'd be nice to hear voices. The question is that the motion moved by Senator Macdonald be agreed to.