The $300 million question
When the Chinese Government owned coal mining company Shenhua was given a coal exploration licence over parts of the Liverpool Plains, it paid the NSW Government $300 million. Then Resources Minister, Ian Macdonald, crowed about the payment. Another $200 million is apparently due to be paid when the Shenhua Watermark mine is approved.
Recently the Planning Assessment Commission said the mine was “approvable”. However, there are severe deficiencies in the mine’s water studies. Local farmers fear the mine will ruin the incredibly important water resources of the Liverpool Plains.
Greens MP Jeremy Buckingham asked a series of question to the government about the payment on approval, and whether or not this payment may affect the assessment of the mine?
The government tried to avoid answering the question. Watch for yourself:
Question Time: 10 September -
Question Time: 11 September -