Qld: Katter labels government "enviro nazis" over trees

AAP General News (Australia)
08-17-2000
Qld: Katter labels government "enviro nazis" over trees

Federal National Party MP BOB KATTER has accused the Queensland Government of theft
over the state's proposed tree clearing laws.

Mr KATTER has launched a scathing attack on the state legislation, which is expected
to be part-proclaimed in state parliament next week.

He says the federal government will be an accessory to the theft of private property
if it helps the state government in any way.

Mr KATTER says cutbacks in the timber industry have cost 2,500 jobs, with 10 mills
shut down which once employed up to 200 people each.

He says while greenies indulge themselves in tree worshipping, young people are hanging
themselves and over-dosing because of lack of jobs.

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD is expected to put a package to the state government on
tree clearing laws tomorrow following a meeting on Tuesday with Queensland's farming lobby.

Queensland Premier PETER BEATTIE says he has no choice but to proclaim the legislation
for endangered areas as the federal government is yet to agree to funding for farmers'
compensation.





Mr BEATTIE asked the Commonwealth in February for $100 million to pay for the compensation
package for farmers who would be disadvantaged by clearing restrictions.

AAP RTV ap/sc/smf/jn

KEYWORD: TREES (BRISBANE)

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