Farmer rallies

The committee raises the example of farmers protesting the price of milk in enclosed lands (outside the doors of Coles) - they ask whether this kind of action should be outlawed as it could be prosecuted under this Bill.

Mr Arkle notes that the Association supports the right to free speech but not aggravated trespass. He notes that in this case it should be considered by the court but fails to see himself how it would affect business.

 

The committee then raises protests attended by farmers regarding coal and gas.

Mr Arkle responds by saying that the Association supports the right to peaceful protest, but they are asking for "one standard" regardless of whether farming, mining or supermarket businesses are affected.

Ms Johnson says that farmers recognise that if they have political views they need to protest "in the legal way".