Opposition to the new free trade deal between China and Australia continues to cause problems in the Australian government, as we noted last week. Australia's ruling Conservative government believes the deal will significantly expand ties between the two countries, opening up Chinese markets to Australia and visa versa. However, the Labour Party, is withholding support until greater protections are introduced for Australian workers, due to the concerns it will open the floodgates of cheap labour coming from China; Mr Shorten is backed by the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU). The Labor Party has also been criticised over its stance on climate change. we cannot reopen the negotiations", and warns that China may walk away from the deal.
Opposition to the new free trade deal between China and Australia continues to cause problems in the Australian government, as we noted last week. Australia's ruling Conservative government believes the deal will significantly expand ties between the two countries, opening up Chinese markets to Australia and visa versa. However, the Labour Party, is withholding support until greater protections are introduced for Australian workers, due to the concerns it will open the floodgates of cheap labour coming from China; Mr Shorten is backed by the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU). Prime Minister Tony Abbott insists, "we cannot change this agreement... we cannot reopen the negotiations", and warns that China may walk away from the deal.