Tuesday, 25 July, 2006

ABC News Online

There is growing criticism from within federal Labor ranks of Kim Beazley's push to overturn the party's ban on new uranium mines.

Labor MP Harry Quick says Mr Beazley has failed to consult his own party.

"I think it's another knee-jerk reaction by Kim trying to keep up with [Prime Minister] John Howard," he said.

"We've had no real discussion within the Caucus and to say we are going to have a big debate at the next conference when he has already made up his mind I think is selling the Caucus short."

Mr Quick says the issue will be raised when Parliament resumes.

"There might be a few heated words said in the Monday Caucus meeting," he said.

Labor's environment spokesman, Anthony Albanese is also continuing to condemn Mr Beazley's stand.

But the Opposition Leader has told Southern Cross radio the discussion will not damage the party.

"There won't be blood on the walls but there will be a serious argument," he said.

Mr Howard says Mr Beazley will eventually win the policy debate.

"I think it'll get there," he said.

"Surely they won't roll him on this, I can't believe they would but I predict it will get carried.

"But all it does is bring them limping towards basic common sense."
Greens hopeful

Greens leader Bob Brown says Mr Beazley's decision on uranium will result in further support for the Greens.

"The option's going to be as we move to the next election for many, many Labor voters to support the Greens," he said.

"We've got stronger policies than Labor on workplace relations, protecting the workplace, on forests and environmental issues, on global warming and now of course uranium," he said.