It’s an unintended consequence that poses a major internal threat to the $70 billion Australian coal exports that are a vital element in our economic recovery from the Covid-19 recession. No matter how many assurances Prime Minister Morrison gives that his transition to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 will not be at the cost of regional Australia and in the face of threats by his coalition partner the Nationals to cross the floor if mining and other regional industries are not adequately protected, this stable door is already open and the horse has bolted.