Liberal National MP George Christensen Wants People To Boycott Ben & Jerry’s

In one of the stranger stories to come out of Canberra this week, ultra-conversative Liberal National MP George Christensen is calling for a boycott of Ben & Jerry’s over their vocal opposition to Adani’s controversial Carmichael coal mine.

Recently, the American ice cream company, which has a surprisingly long history of supporting progressive causes including marriage equality, the Black Lives Matter movement and numerous environmental issues, announced that it was partnering with local activist group 350.org on a four city roadshow to raise awareness about the environmental impact of the mine, featuring expert speakers and free ice cream for all.

“The Queensland and Federal Governments have agreed to every one of Adani’s needs – including $1 billion of taxpayer funds and all the free water the mine wants,” reads a post on Ben & Jerry’s website. “The Adani Mine will produce around 60 million tonnes of coal a year for 60 years. And the mining and burning of that coal will generate an estimated 4.7 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.”

“It’s never been more important for the Australian people to come together and stop this megamine.”

But Christensen has a different perspective. On Thursday, the member for Dawson in Northern Queensland took to Facebook to accuse the ice cream makers of endangering jobs, writing that “if you want local jobs and prosperity, boycott Ben & Jerry’s.” He added that his followers should “get a good Aussie-owned and made ice cream like Bulla instead.”

Now, I’d like to tell you that this is the dumbest thing that Christensen has ever said. But given that he has spoken at Reclaim Australia rallies and compared Safe Schools to paedophile “grooming”, the truth is it barely even registers.

For the record, the Carmichael mine is expected to be one of the largest coal mines anywhere in the world. In addition to costing taxpayers upwards of $1 billion, it will do irrevocable harm to the Great Barrier Reef.

A spokesperson for Ben & Jerry’s responded to Christensen’s comments by saying the company was proud to be part of the fight against the Carmichael mine. “We are urging our fans to get involved by coming along to the roadshows and showing their support next week,” they said. “We look forward to seeing everyone there, even George Christensen.”

Meanwhile, in a bit of irony sweeter than a scoop of Chunky Monkey, a number of Christensen’s Facebook followers appear to have turned on him – not for his call to boycott Ben & Jerry’s, but for his decision to recommend Bulla as an alternative. Why? Because it turns out Bulla ice cream is certified halal.

Sucked in Georgie. Sucked in.