Opposition demands for more information about the effect of the Rudd government's emissions trading scheme could delay a vote on the legislation until next year, Queensland Liberal senator Ian Macdonald said, suggesting the government could be denied a trigger to call a double dissolution election.
The Australian Financial Review reports that Senator Macdonald said Coalition Senators would use the Upper House debate to demand Climate Change Minister Penny Wong reveal the likely effect of the scheme and release regulations that flesh out the treatment of emissions intensive, trade exposed industries (EITE).
"On the time allowed, I just don't think there will be time [for a vote]," he said.
Nationals Senator Ron Boswell said a delay was a possibility.
"I think people are so desperate to stop this they'll do anything. If they needed any support to keep the debate running then the National Party would be willing and ready to help," he said.
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