[Greens-Media] Greens protect free speech while ALP backflip

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

Greens protect free speech while ALP backflip
Thursday 20th September 2007

The Australian Greens will oppose the Government's Trade Practices
Amendment (Small Business Protection) Bill when it is introduced into
the Senate later today.

"The name of this Bill is a deliberate piece of Howard misdirection -
this Bill is much more about protecting the interests of big businesses
who are copping flack from community groups for dodgy or unethical
practices," said Senator Rachel Siewert today.

Under the proposed amendments the ACCC will be able to bring
representative actions on behalf of businesses for compensation for
damage caused by secondary boycotts. 

In a surprising turn, the ALP seem likely to support these changes -
scrapping the very amendments they introduced and fought hard for five
years ago.

"We have a deep concern that these changes will lead to a restriction in
the flow of information to consumers and stifle public debate. These
provisions are an attempt to intimidate individuals and organisations
into silence," said Senator Siewert.

"Secondary boycott provisions are primarily used against union activity,
and as such have no place in the Trade Practices Act," said Senator
Siewert. "I was alarmed by the Treasurer's statements linking the need
for this Bill to the activities of legitimate environmental and consumer
protection groups."

"This is an important Bill for those of us who believe in freedom of
speech. It is an attempt to curtail the legitimate rights of citizens in
our democracy to speak out and protest against a business on moral or
ethical grounds," she concluded.

For more information or comment call Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025
Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au  |  http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au


Tim Norton
Communications and Campaigns
Office of Senator Rachel Siewert
Australian Greens Senator for Western Australia
Tim.Norton at aph.gov.au
www.rachelsiewert.org.au

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