Mining Tax Before Federal Parliament

HUNTER politicians will stand on both sides of the debate when the mining tax legislation goes before Federal Parliament today.

Liberal MP for Paterson Bob Baldwin is scheduled to make a speech on the controversial minerals resource rent tax this afternoon to oppose its introduction.

‘‘We oppose it and we will repeal it,’’ Mr Baldwin said.

Labor MP for Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon said the tax was critical for Hunter residents and the regional economy in order to receive essential infrastructure funding.

Opposition resources spokesman Ian Macfarlane said he would consider supporting amendments by the independents to lessen the impact of the tax on mining communities.

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SMH