Don't be scared, it's only coal: MPs told

Treasurer Scott Morrison has mocked the opposition over its aversion to coal, brandishing a chunk of the black stuff during question time in federal parliament.

"This is coal - don't be afraid, don't be scared," he told Labor MPs on Thursday before the Speaker warned him about the use of props.

Mr Morrison said coal had ensured Australia enjoyed an energy competitive advantage for more than 100 years, delivering prosperity to businesses and ensuring industry was able to remain competitive in a global market.

While there was no word for "coal-phobia, those opposite have an ideological, pathological fear of coal".