Australian parties split over US-China issue

Opposition slams PM for backing Trump's trade war with China

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison (centre) greeting members of the local community during a visit to fire-affected Rappville in New South Wales yesterday. Mr Morrison has indicated that he will side with the US in its trade war with China, but
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison (centre) greeting members of the local community during a visit to fire-affected Rappville in New South Wales yesterday. Mr Morrison has indicated that he will side with the US in its trade war with China, but this has raised concerns that Australia's ties with China will further deteriorate. PHOTO: EPA-EFE
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Australia's main political parties typically take a bipartisan approach to foreign affairs but noticeable splits have emerged, particularly over the handling of tensions between China and the United States.

In recent weeks, the opposition Labor Party has launched an attack on Prime Minister Scott Morrison for his staunch backing of US President Donald Trump's trade war with China.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 14, 2019, with the headline Australian parties split over US-China issue. Subscribe