Miners hail uranium call as activists rail against green light – by Paul Garvey (The Australian – June 21, 2017)

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/

Western Australia’s most advanced uranium players are breathing a sigh of relief and environment groups are outraged after the state Labor government confirmed it would allow for the development of up to four uranium mines in the state.

WA Mines Minister Bill Johnston yesterday said the government would not stand in the way of the four uranium developments approved during the final months of Colin Barnett’s government although the new administration confirmed a ban on future uranium mining leases in the state.

While Labor had been under pressure to extend its uranium ban to the most advanced of the projects, Mr Johnston said the government had received legal advice that doing so could leave the state exposed to court action.

“In making this decision, the McGowan government has carefully considered the potential liability risk for WA taxpayers,” Mr Johnston said.

“We made a commitment that all uranium mining projects with state ministerial approvals will be able to continue, providing they meet all planning approvals.

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