North-West Minister Ernie Bridge said he was amazed by recent criticism of BHP's announcement that it plans to build a $300 million power station at Port Hedland.
"This project is so significant, it should be beyond politics. It is about jobs - some 350 in construction at its peak - and it is about clearing impediments to industrial growth by making the region more attractive for processing and other opportunities," he said.
"It is incredible that the Liberal Party would cast doubt or in any way be less than enthusiastic about BHP's investment simply because they do not like the timing of the announcement.
"Discussions have been going on over many months, culminating in a decision now. To expect BHP to hide that decision in case it shows that the Government has been working with them to get an important project off the ground is ridiculous.
"We are talking about a major investment in the North-West which will have huge benefits for the State and for people in the region."
Mr Bridge said it was astonishing that just days after the Opposition released its North-West policy, claiming it wanted to see greater investment and industry opportunities in the region, it was taking such a stance.
"Even in the run-up to an election, what must be understood by everyone, including the Opposition, is that Government does not just cease," he said.
