“If Glencore can’t commit to Mount Isa, they need to stand aside and let someone else build a business out of this incredible resource, which has at least another 30 to 40 years of operation in it,” Mr Katter said.

“The community and I have worked very hard to support Glencore to make sure they have had every opportunity to create a long term, profitable future in Mount Isa.

“After all the community support Mount Isa has shown Glencore, this is a real spit in the face.”

Mr Katter is calling on the Government to urgently meet with Glencore to make sure it is doing everything it can to secure these critical jobs in Mount Isa.

However, Mount Isa Mayor Joyce McCulloch said she was not overly concerned about the threat but was waiting to hear if there is any truth in it.

“I have understood for some time that the mines do have an issue with energy prices in relation to their operations,” Cr McCulloch said.

“I’m sure that this is their frustration with the state and federal government’s perhaps lack of response to the issue around energy.”

Cr McCulloch wanted more detail on the letter that was leaked to the AFR.

“I’d like to see what truth is in it before I go sensationalising it,” Cr McCulloch said.

“I am awaiting a call from the minister for mines, and I’ve spoken to Glencore on the ground here."

Cr McCulloch said the Mount Isa City Council has been proactive in its approach to Mount Isa’s ongoing economic situation.

“Council has already started, we’ve got consultants working on a strategic economic plan for Mount Isa, which is a first from local government. We’ve been very proactive in the last 12 months and that study will be coming to us at the end of July.”

Cr McCulloch said energy prices are a concern for everybody, not just big businesses.