The Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association (HTBA) has called on the NSW Government to vote in favour of suspending all Exploration Licences that are currently under investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption.

“We have written to our local Member of Parliament, to all Coalition Ministers and Members of Parliament, the Deputy Premier and the Premier urging them not to play politics with this important issue.” HTBA President Cameron Collins said.

“We have for some time called on the Government to suspend the NuCoal Exploration Licence pending the ICAC investigations.

“The information emanating from the Independent Commission Against Corruption investigation is seriously alarming – both in terms of the claims made against the process and Government representatives involved.

“We understand that the Opposition has written to the Premier offering bipartisan support for the suspension of these licences.

“Following our request earlier this year, the HTBA again calls on the Government to suspend all Exploration Licences that are the subject of ICAC investigations.

“In this respect we add our voice to all other parties who are calling on the Government to intervene and suspend these Exploration Licences pending the outcome of the ICAC investigation.” Collins said.  “We urge all Members of Parliament to vote in favour of suspending these licences.”