Malcolm Turnbull lashes Scott Morrison government on emissions

Malcolm Turnbull launches a scathing attack on the Morrison government, and his former Liberal colleagues | WATCH

Malcolm Turnbull during his appearance on 60 Minutes.

Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has lashed the Morrison government for being “dangerous and idiotic” in not taking stronger action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Mr Turnbull savaged the Liberal Party for failing to heed the warnings of scientists in an episode of the US version of current affairs program 60 Minutes, which aired on Sunday, declaring those predictions had “become reality” during a horror bushfire season.

"It is dangerous and idiotic not to be taking the strongest action to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions," says former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull about the right wing of his own conservative party. https://t.co/fsnA8e1eRt pic.twitter.com/5WTxRfIUXT

— 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) February 17, 2020

Mr Turnbull said Scott Morrison had received “plenty of warning” when it came to an increasing prevalence of extreme weather events.

“We’ve been warned by the climate scientists. Everyone has been aware of this except for those who, well, the climate change deniers are aware of it, but they choose to deny reality,” Mr Turnbull said.

“The right wing climate deniers treat an issue of science and physics and fact as though it was a question of ideology, and their conduct is not just idiotic.”

Mr Turnbull condemned climate deniers among the Coalition’s ranks.

“Well, of course it is dangerous and idiotic not to be taking the strongest action to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions,” he said. 

When asked whether he was directly referring to members of his party, Mr Turnbull said.

“Of course I am.”

“This is climate change in the raw. This is what we have been told to expect for years.” 

Australia’s failed national ­energy policy, which contributed to Mr Turnbull’s political downfall, could have provided a blueprint for the nation to cut emissions, lower prices and provide­ a stable market, according to the former leader.