This week is National Manufacturing Week but rather than celebrate, businesses are more concerned for their future under a Labor-Greens-Independent carbon tax, according to the Nationals Duty Senator for New England John Williams.

In New England there are 501 manufacturing businesses employing 4,411 people.

Senator Williams said business is tough enough with the cost of inputs, increasing overheads and thin margins.

He said under Labor, 90,000 manufacturing jobs have been lost nationwide and there have been more than 20 separate monthly contractions in sectoral activity.

“Major Australian companies have been critical of the government for its lack of vision and destructive approach. But in return they will be burdened with a carbon tax that will cost industries and jobs

By contrast, the Coalition supports Australian manufacturing because we understand how innovative and competitive the sector is.

The 501 manufacturing businesses in New England are significant contributors to the region’s economy and there should be no impediments to their continued growth.

That’s why the Member for New England Tony Windsor should vote down the carbon tax”, Senator Williams said.