PM rejects Twiggy's calls for discussion on MRRT

Prime Minister Julia Gillard has rebuffed calls from Fortescue Metals Group chief Andrew Forrest for open discussions on the mineral south bend lathe post grinder toolresource rent tax while she is in Perth, but says she has "always been happy to talk".

Ms Gillard was asked on ABC's 720 morning program to respond to a press release issued by Fortescue on behalf of Mr Forrest, requesting what he called an open discussion on the MRRT. "As I'm sure Mr Forrest is aware, I need to travel back to Brisbane… to debate Tony Abbott," Ms Gillard said. "On the mineral resources rent tax I've been happy to talk to people in Perth about that. "On earlier trips I've met with representatives of the mining community, including a representative of Fortescue Metals." Mr Forrest is one of the most vocal critics of the MRRT and his iron ore miner, Fortescue, is likely to be one of the biggest losers under the proposed tax.