Scott Morrison accused of ‘bias’ in blocking Pep11 gas project using extraordinary ministerial powers

PM alleged to have predetermined' application after project was blocked despite recommendation to the contrary by national petroleum administrator

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Scott Morrison's decision to use extraordinary ministerial powers to block the controversial Pep11 gas project off the coast of NSW is being challenged in the federal court, with the proponent accusing the former prime minister of bias" that denied procedural fairness.

Federal court documents obtained by Guardian Australia also suggest that Morrison's decision to block the project as the joint decision-maker came despite the National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator (Nopta) recommending in April 2020 that the project's licence be extended.

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