Turnbull blames News Corp after NSW govt rescinds appointment to key climate body

Senior NSW government figures have defended their decision to rescind former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull nomination to chair the Net Zero Emissions and Clean Economy Board. Sky News Australia revealed last week Mr Kean was planning on appointing Mr Turnbull chair of the key climate body before the former prime minister made controversial statements calling for a suspension of new coal mines. Following the sensational reversal NSW Energy Minister Matt Kean and Deputy Premier John Barilaro both noted Mr Turnbull was a “controversial” personality and not fit for the role. Speaking of the former prime minister NSW Energy Minister Matt Kean said regardless of whether you “love him or loath him” Malcolm Turnbull was a divisive figure. Mr Barilaro told 2GB’s Ray Hadley yesterday morning he was willing to give Mr Turnbull the benefit of the doubt but he had “pulled my pants down within 48 hours”. Following the reversal Mr Turnbull quickly jumped on ABC radio and accused the NSW government of caving to media pressure. Many believe the NSW government backflipped on the appointment due to an upcoming by-election in the upper Hunter seat which has a number of coal mines.