CONSERVATIVE politicians across the country seem to be having a tough time with their political strategy in recent weeks, with more than a few remarks raising the ire of voters.
The latest came from Queensland Treasurer Tim Nicholls who recently referred in State Parliament to those who took up the solar bonus scheme as “champagne sippers” and a part of the “latte set”.
The Treasurer was trying to attack Labor over the poorly-thought-out 44 cent feed-in tariff solar bonus scheme, which it set up while in power, but instead made headlines for all the wrong reasons.
The Treasurer is right to question the merits of the scheme which has now been shown to have put upward pressure on electricity prices for those who did not or could not afford to take up the scheme.
However, the slight against Queenslanders who did take advantage of the scheme was uncalled for.
While being diplomatic, Beaudesert MP Jon Krause, to his credit, said as much this week when he responded with “that’s not a term I would use” when questioned on the issue by the Times.
As noted by Mr Krause, people who signed up for the 44 cent feed-in tariff did so in good faith.
A large number of families in the Beaudesert district and surrounds took advantage of the scheme.
They did so to help fend off the rising cost of living - not because they are part of some so-called “latte set”.
The Treasurer’s comments serve only to make him appear out of touch with Queensland families.
