[Peakoil] News items from Canberra Times Tue, 8 Aug 2006

[Antony Barry]

"MPs seek GST option on fuel" by Andrew Fraser and Ross Peake p.2

Reports coalition meeting and opposition comments which considered a  
number of options to cut petrol prices including a temporary  
reduction in the GST which the states would be unhappy with.

Comment: There is still an assumption that this is a temporary  
problem. Any letter should target this.
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"Which excise should be excised - a taxing question" by Paul Maley p.1

Reports comments of independents and minor parties. Democrat's   
Allison recognises that prices will continue to go up. Green's Milne  
brings in importation barriers on electric cars and need for support  
for LPG conversions.

Comment: At least the minor parties are getting it. Letters in  
support of their views would be valuable.
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"Some differing opinions on fuel tax and its effects" Letters p.14

Letter from Barry Naughton attacks both parties and points out that  
only the US has lower petrol taxes than Australia out of OECD  
countries. We need to address our long term oil addiction but the  
major parties are not.

Letter from Robert Ettery attacks the government and points out that  
there is customs tax, excise and GST on petrol and these should be cut.

Letter from Murray May points out peak oil is coming and we need a plan.

Comment: Maybe Murray is a member of this list?? Letters following up  
would be good.
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"Fuel rise flow-on a threat to inflation" by Kanchan Dutt p.17

Dun and Bradstreet survey reports companies will pass on the fuel  
price cost increases to their customers. Other economic statistics  
indicate the economy is slowing.

Comment: When the peak hits and the oil price really starts tio jump  
we will be in for a very bad time. Inflation from the price rises,  
recession from the disruption to economic activity - stagflation.
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Tony
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