Entsch’s UN tour needs a local flavour

BARRON River MP Craig Crawford has called on Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch to use his secondment to the United Nations to learn about the international prevalence of government-led “buy local” schemes.

In response to an opinion piece by Mr Entsch in the Cairns Post, Mr Crawford said the Buy Queensland policy would apply to the $152 million Smithfield bypass and afford local businesses up to a 30 per cent price advantage to win contracts.

“The bypass is a project I have championed and I have been determined to have Buy Queensland apply to it,” Mr Crawford said.

Mr Entsch had argued the scheme could spark retaliatory action from foreign countries and devastate local businesses.

Mr Crawford rattled off 10 US states where local strategies operated without controversy.

“As Warren finalises his travel agenda for his three- month taxpayer-funded trip to the United States, can I suggest a few places for him to visit,” he began.

“Firstly, he should go to Louisiana where they have a preference for items manufactured in the United States in their procurement.

“Then, go to California and ask about their weighting for a ‘California-based company’ in areas of high unemployment.

“Then when he gets to Delaware, he should remember they have preference in procurement for Delaware labour for all public works.”

I HAVE BEEN DETERMINED TO HAVE BUY QUEENSLAND APPLY TO IT