A story in the Courier Mail today reported Nationals Senator Barnaby Joyce as claiming unethical conduct by Government Minister’s and large oil companies.

At no stage was the term ‘bribe’ used and at no time did Senator Joyce insinuate unethical or criminal conduct by Government Ministers or oil company executives.

However, the Senator does stand by his comments that the oil lobby’s power is too great. Due to the tight concentration of their resources in Canberra, this particular lobby enjoys far too much clout.

While the influence they have is quite strong and has undoubtedly contributed to the stunted progress of the ethanol industry, Senator Joyce does not believe any criminal conduct has or is taking place.