The petrol debate is again plaguing the Prime Minister, with the Coalition seizing on divisions over the FuelWatch scheme.
Last month, Energy Minister Martin Ferguson wrote a letter to his Labor colleagues opposing the plan, on the grounds that it could hurt the most ‘price-sensitive’ drivers in urban areas who are more likely to hunt around for a bargain under the existing pricing system.
This morning he has fallen into line and agreed to support FuelWatch.
But Shadow Treasurer Malcolm Turnbull says Mr Ferguson is an honest man and the letter proves the scheme won't benefit drivers.
“He demonstrates that the government’s decision to introduce FuelWatch is is just spin,” he claimed.
“It’s going to hurt Australian motorists, it’s going to cost taxpayers money, it’s going to work against the interests of Australians in western Sydney; Australians on lower incomes right around Australia.”
Independent MP Bob Katter stuck the boot into both sides of politics for not doing more to support ethanol, which he says is responsible for lower fuel prices in both Brazil and the US
“The answers are there, the hypocrisy is in there,” he said pointing into the House.