The Australian reports that Mr Gray’s rivals, backed by the likes of the Maritime Union of Australia, which has criticised his support of floating natural gas (FLNG), have pushed for Mr Gray to sign a pledge binding him to state party directions.
Federal Labor frontbencher Anthony Albanese has called for the pledge to be amended, dismissing it as outdated.
“Gary Gray makes an outstanding contribution to the federal shadow cabinet,”? Mr Albanese said.
“He was an outstanding contributor to the previous cabinet. He has very strong connections with industry.”?
Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) Chief Executive Dr Malcolm Roberts also backed Mr Gray, commenting that it is vital to have people who understand the importance of the resources sector to Australia in parliament.
Mr Gray has previously stated that Australia would be foolish not to embrace FLNG, commenting that the technology would be cheaper to build than conventional plants and could also be built faster.