Tuesday, 25 July, 2006

ABC News Online

Federal Opposition industry spokesman Stephen Smith says he will not pressure the West Australian Government to change its mind on uranium mining.

Federal Labor leader Kim Beazley wants the existing ban on new mines to be lifted.

But West Australian Premier Alan Carpenter says there will be no new mines in the state, even if the policy changes.

Mr Smith says it is up to each state to make that decision.

"I don't propose to put pressure on anyone," he said.

"I think Mr Carpenter is quite right to say he regards himself as bound by election promises he gave.

"Whether he changes the policy approach for the next election, time will tell."