Palmer hurting China FTA talks: Robb

Trade Minister Andrew Robb has warned Clive Palmer’s anti-China rant could jeopardise free-trade talks with Australia.

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Robb said it was a “welcome sign” that the Chinese government officially acknowledged that it does not believe Mr Palmer’s comments reflect the view of the Australian government or public.

"Nevertheless, comments by someone in his position [are]... extraordinarily unhelpful," said Mr Robb. "It can be misinterpreted, it can colour the attitudes of the people we are trying to negotiate with."

Mr Palmer has been in international headlines following an outburst on ABC TV’s Q&A where he called China "mongrels" and "bastards" that "shot their own people".

The Palmer United Party leader later said his comments were directed at Citic Pacific, which he’s engaged in legal disputes with, and not the Chinese people.

"This in no way...looks after the interests of the Australian people; it’s an attempt to look after his business ­interests," said Mr Robb.

Source: businessspectator.com.au