Australian MP calls Trump’s tariffs a ‘disgraceful act’
Political
Australia’s industry minister, Ed Husic, has called Donald Trump’s tariffs on aluminum and steel a “dog act.” The Trump administration rejected Australia’s request for an exemption from these tariffs. As a result, all steel and aluminum exports to the US will now be subject to a 25% tax.
Last month, Trump promised Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese “great consideration” regarding the tariffs. However, White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has consistently accused Australia of “dumping” steel and aluminum into the US market.
On Wednesday, the prime minister faced criticism over Australia not securing an exemption. Opposition leader Peter Dutton called the US decision a “failure” of the government and criticized it for not being able to arrange a phone call with Trump.
However, former Australian ambassador to the US, Arthur Sinodinos, told ABC’s 7.30 program that the chance of obtaining an exemption was “less than 50%.”
“We should have expected this decision,” former Senator Sinodinos said.
“This is a disgraceful act after more than a century of friendship. Australians have stood by Americans for many decades. Australians have spilled blood alongside Americans in various conflicts. We have stood together not just in national security matters but also in economic security,” Husic said.
Independent Senator Jacqui Lambie warned that Australia needs to stand up to Trump.
“America is no longer a reliable ally – hopefully, that will change, but for now, we can’t keep assuming that the US has our back. Trump clearly only looks out for himself,” she said.
On Wednesday, the prime minister faced criticism over Australia not securing an exemption. Opposition leader Peter Dutton called the US decision a “failure” of the government and criticized it for not being able to arrange a phone call with Trump.
However, former Australian ambassador to the US, Arthur Sinodinos, told ABC’s 7.30 program that the chance of obtaining an exemption was “less than 50%.”
“We should have expected this decision,” former Senator Sinodinos said.
“This is a disgraceful act after more than a century of friendship. Australians have stood by Americans for many decades. Australians have spilled blood alongside Americans in various conflicts. We have stood together not just in national security matters but also in economic security,” Husic said.
Independent Senator Jacqui Lambie warned that Australia needs to stand up to Trump.
“America is no longer a reliable ally – hopefully, that will change, but for now, we can’t keep assuming that the US has our back. Trump clearly only looks out for himself,” she said.
Powered by Froala Editor