One Nation's Mike Newman Eyes Trade Commissioner Positions

Mike Newman, the One Nation candidate for Cessnock and the party's NSW leader, is advocating for the reinstatement of overseas trade commissioner roles if his party secures victory in the upcoming state election.

Newman, who served as the senior trade and investment commissioner in Tokyo from 2022 to 2024, expressed that the decision by the Minns government to eliminate these posts was a misstep. He acknowledged that while the government fulfilled an election promise, the elimination of these roles has led to poorer decision-making regarding international trade.

During an interview, Newman highlighted the significant financial burden the previous trade commissioner roles imposed on taxpayers, noting their combined cost of approximately $12.7 million in 2021-22. He believes that experienced individuals from the private sector should fill these positions, emphasizing the need for public servants who are dedicated to serving the state rather than perpetuating a "bloated" bureaucracy.

Newman's comments come as Premier Chris Minns embarks on a four-day trip to India aimed at attracting foreign investments, with Newman arguing that such initiatives should have been prioritized much earlier. Minns has publicly acknowledged Newman's forthrightness, suggesting that his candid nature will add a dynamic element to political discussions.

Source: www.abc.net.au