The Coalition has confirmed it will oppose the free-trade deal with the European Union, and farmers want every party in Parliament to do the same. Liberal treasury spokesman Tim Wilson said the Coalition was against the deal while it goes through parliamentary processes. Trade Minister Don Farrell urged the Opposition to stand up to Nationals leader Matt Canavan. The National Farmers' Federation says the deal offers no material improvement for key agricultural products and calls on all parties to oppose it.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen says the federal opposition has lost touch with the free market beliefs of the Liberal Party. His comments follow a fresh dispute over a trade agreement with the European Union. Liberal senior Tim Wilson said on Saturday the proposed deal does not serve the national interest, and he called for better terms for businesses and farmers. Under the agreement struck in March, tariffs on European goods would be removed, along with many Australian exports to the EU. Bowen said the government would still work to pass the deal through the Senate.