Parliamentary secretary for the Illawarra Gareth Ward has distanced himself from controversial comments on steel made by a fellow Liberal MP.
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Last Thursday, the Greens bill calling for the use of Australian steel in government infrastructure projects was up for debate in parliament.
Several Liberal MPs spoke out against the motion, including Peter Phelps.
Dr Phelps’ comments showed support for steel dumping and that BlueScope’s board does not have any responsibility to the community or its workers – it’s only obligation is to make money.
Dr Phelps also said that, if the Port Kembla steelworks was no longer economically viable and had to close down then, “so be it”.
Mr Ward said Dr Phelps did not speak for him when it came to steel and Port Kembla.
“Dr Phelps is entitled to his opinion,” Mr Ward said.
“Just as I disagreed with him on ethanol and the importance of those jobs to our region, I do not share his views on this matter.
“It should come as no surprise that I disagree with my colleagues from time to time.”
Mr Ward particularly spoke out against steel dumping, saying it is not “an acceptable practice”.
“I strongly support the work of our Federal Industry Minister Christopher Pyne who has made it quite clear that dumping cheap steel on the market artificially lowers the price of steel and makes it difficult for our quality steel products to compete,” he said.
“Minister Pyne has pursued tougher anti-dumping measures in partnership with the Anti-Dumping Commission.”
The Kiama MP also pointed out the efforts his government was making when it came to steel procurement.
“The NSW Government is the largest single procurer of Australian steel,” he said.
“Whilst Australian steel manufacturers don’t produce everything that Australian governments require, our government is using record amounts of Australian steel in infrastructure.”
Mr Ward flagged the possibility he would comment on the bill when it comes before the lower house.
“When this bill comes before the chamber of which I am a member, the Legislative Assembly, I will have my opportunity to make my comments,” he said.