[Greens-Media] Wal Mart takeover of Coles should be stopped

[Bennett, Ebony (Sen B. Brown)]

Thursday, 14 September 2006

Wal Mart takeover of Coles should be stopped

Greens Senator Bob Brown expressed concern today at renewed reports that
Wal Mart may be planning a takeover of Coles and called on the Treasurer
to block any sale to a foreign corporation, not least Wal Mart.

"Wal Mart have a very worrying record on workers rights and the
environment" Senator Brown said.

"A takeover risks the jobs and conditions of the 90,000 workers
currently employed by Coles."

"Wal Mart has a record of sending jobs overseas," Senator Brown said.

"Wal Mart has been a disaster for small business in the United States.
It would  be bad for Australian small businesses already threatened by
the mega stores. 

"Wal Mart's aggressive tactics, which drive out small competitors such
as local supermarkets, should not be introduced into Australia 

"Australia's retail sector should be managed for Australian, rather than
foreign, interests," Senator Brown said.

Further information: Ebony Bennett 0409 164 603

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Ebony Bennett
Media Adviser
Office of Greens Senator Bob Brown
Mobile: 0409 164 603
Ph: (02) 6277 3170
Fax: (02) 6277 3185
ebony.bennett at aph.gov.au