JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – The Australian mining industry has congratulated veteran Liberal MP and former Cabinet Minister Ian Macfarlane on his 18-year career in federal politics.
Macfarlane, who is Australia’s longest-servicing Resources Minister, on Monday announced his resignation from Parliament in the next election, stating that “the time is right to pass the baton”. He was demoted to the backbench after Malcolm Turnbull took over from Tony Abbott as Prime Minister in 2015.
"After 32 years in public life in agripolitics and politics, I will now be looking for new challenges to use my wealth of knowledge and experience in the resources, industry and science sectors for the betterment of our great nation," Macfarlane said in a statement.
Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) CEO Brendan Pearson congratulated Macfarlane on his 18-year career in politics and paid tribute to the role that he had played in supporting the country’s resource industry.
“Ian Macfarlane was a pragmatic and down-to-earth Minister who sought to cut through red tape where possible and was far more interested in getting results than engaging in partisan politics. His effective working relationship with his political opponents always put the country first.”
Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association chairperson Bruce Lake also saluted Macfarlane’s career.
“Since 2001, Macfarlane has been a tireless, passionate champion of the resources sector in general and the gas industry in particular. He leaves office with an impressive record of achievement and universal respect.”
Lake said Macfarlane had left an enduring mark on Australian energy policy.
“Ian played a major role in the rapid development of Australia’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, helping to ensure a positive investment environment which attracted $200-billion into local projects.
“With Australia poised to become the world’s leading LNG exporter, Ian can be proud of his pivotal role in developing this world-class industry.”