Libs delay telecommunications reforms
Stephen Conroy
posted Thursday, 25 February 2010
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today condemned the Opposition for blocking debate on key legislation that would enhance competition and consumer protections in the telecommunications sector.
“The Opposition wasted an hour filibustering during non-controversial legislation to prevent debate on the Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Competition and Consumer Safeguards) Bill 2009,” Senator Conroy said.
“Today, the Shadow Communications Spokesman has been crying crocodile tears about the draft NBN Co bills.
“But when it comes to allowing debate of legislation that will deliver competition benefits and a more effective market structure right now, the Liberals and Nationals have chosen to obstruct the debate.
“After doing nothing for 11 ½ years the Opposition are wilfully and deliberately blocking measures designed to fix problems with the existing telecommunications regulatory framework.
“The past week has seen an unprecedented coming together of key stakeholders in the telecommunications sector, representing both industry and consumer interests, requesting the Senate to debate and pass this legislation.
“The Opposition has shown their contempt for enhanced competition and consumer protection,” Senator Conroy said.
“If the Opposition is serious about improving competition in the market, they need to stop playing opposition for opposition’s sake and allow the debate to begin.”
The Government welcomed the Greens’ support for debating the bill today.
The Government is determined to debate and pass the Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Competition and Consumer Safeguards) Bill 2009 and will bring it forward during the next sitting week.
Tags: Reform, Telecommunications