‘Many highs and some unfortunate lows’: Nationals MP Keith Pitts exits political alliance with some parting shots

National MP Keith Pitt has announced he is quitting politics, suggesting his party has lost its “purpose” and slamming the Coalition’s decision to commit to net zero emissions.

Peter, the MP for Sinckler, said in a statement that he had told colleagues that he would not run in the 2025 election. He called his political experience “an incredible privilege…some extraordinary successes, many highs and some unfortunate lows.”

But in an interview with The Australian, Pitt was more candid about his reasons, telling the newspaper that he and party leader David Littleproud had “very different views on the Nationals’ priorities and direction.” Different views”.

Pitt continued: “It seems to me that political parties without a purpose will disappear very quickly… I just think there’s been a shift in policy positions that is sold in terms of discipline but is more about obedience.”

Pitt also criticized Littleproud’s support for the coalition’s net zero emissions target, saying “green policies… have to come at a cost” and that they would have “almost zero impact on the temperature of the planet” while having a “huge impact on people’s wallets” .

A scientific consensus has found that a path to net-zero emissions by 2050 would prevent the worst climate damage caused by man-made emissions globally.

In a statement, Littleproud did not respond to Pitt’s criticism and wished the outgoing politician “all the best in his new career.”

Asked about the criticism, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton claimed Pitt was “frustrated” at not getting a frontbench promotion.

Pitt has always been outspoken in politics, both as a backbencher and in ministerial roles, most notably as resources minister in the Morrison government (having shared the portfolio with Morrison himself).

The Sinckler MP has also fomented opposition to the direction of Littleproud’s leadership and Pitt’s name has been floated for some time as a potential challenger or supporter of the National Party leadership, including backing Barna Than Joyce.

In an upcoming statement, Pitt acknowledged that some people will be happy to see him go.

“While I know some people will be disappointed, I am sure my decision will be warmly welcomed by others. I wish Peter Dutton every success in 2025.

His statement concluded with a quote from Martin Luther King: “When we remain silent about the things that matter, our lives begin to end.”

Pitt is the latest Coalition MP to announce his retirement before the next election, joining Simon Birmingham, Paul Fletcher, Linda Reynolds, Karen Andrews, David Gillespie, Waugh Rennge, Gavin Pearce and Rowan Ramsey.

Dutton told Sunrise that Pitt was “a very smart guy”.

“He is frustrated with being a backbencher and I understand that. He has been offered a job in the private sector and he will take it. As a minister and the member for Bundaberg Sinckler he does He made a huge contribution,” he said.

Nationals senator Matt Canavan hailed Mr Pitt as “a handful of lone voices calling our net zero emissions target crazy”.

“every day [sic] Australia’s loss of more manufacturing jobs and rising energy prices have vindicated Keith’s stance, Canavan wrote on photos.

Birmingham told Sky News the relationship between the Liberals and Nationals was “pretty good” but “there are always some tension points there”.

“I think it’s important that we never let the tail wag the dog and that the Liberal Party stands its ground and makes its values ​​and views clear, but I absolutely recognize the important role and position that National plays.”