A photo of two private jets has sparked controversy after the PM and his energy minister flew separately to attend the same event.
Fordham said he had specifically asked both offices if there was a “special reason” why Albanese and Bowen had to use two jets, which would make the decision understandable.However, Fordham said Albanese’s office “refused to give a straight answer” and Bowen’s office “did not reply” to the questions.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and MP Chris Bowen visited the Hunter Valley to promote the $1 billion program. Picture: PMO / SuppliedHowever Albanese’s plane then took him to another location nearby to make an announcement about China lifting wine tariffs, while Bowen’s flew him to Sydney. “The prime minister is entitled to the use of a private jet and what would typically occur is a minister hitch a ride with the prime minister.
Decommissioned machinery is seen during the closure of the Liddell Power Station. Picture: POOL/Bianca De Marchi/NCA NewsWire.Speaking from western Sydney, the Labour minister defended the decision and said the RAAF had advised they take two smaller jets because Scone Airport was “not equipped” for the prime minister’s usual plane.
Bowen defended the use of two jets and said the decision was made based on RAAF advice. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin OllmanThere’s only one renewable superpower, Chris Bowen. It’s called China