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Labor convenes special caucus meeting to discuss citizenship legislation amendment– politics live Parliament to consider last-minute amendments to citizenship revocation legislation – politics live
(37 minutes later)
1.05am GMT01:05
While I prepare our lunchtime summary, if you are interested, here’s one of the contributions during the Christensen motion earlier on extremism, from Labor’s Tim Watts.
1.00am GMT01:00
Another breaking snippet.
To sign this is madness. It will cost jobs & give greens ammo to attack coal further. #COP21Paris #COP21 @cop21 pic.twitter.com/f8lhn5zNXI
Fresh from his parliamentary motion on extremism, George Christensen is going nuts about one of the communiques associated with the UN climate talks – one that concerns fossil fuel subsidies.
Right on cue, Phil Coorey in the Australian Financial Review.
Sources have told The Australian Financial Review that agriculture minister Barnaby Joyce and former industry minister Ian Macfarlane are among those exercised over a communique Australia is being pressured by New Zealand and others to sign on the sidelines at Paris. The Coalition MPs are arguing it would pose a risk to the multi-billion dollar rebate on diesel excise that farmers and miners enjoy.
Updated at 1.06am GMT
12.51am GMT00:51
Seems ridiculous to term such a small thing “breaking” but it is new: the Labor caucus has just signed off on the amendments to the government’s citizenship laws.
12.45am GMT00:45
Less than half of Australia is “very concerned about Islamic extremism" https://t.co/piXKByHkS7
12.38am GMT00:3812.38am GMT00:38
Partners against the tyranny of political correctness.Partners against the tyranny of political correctness.
12.36am GMT00:3612.36am GMT00:36
I should do readers the courtesy of explaining my ‘not entirely helpful’ characterisation of the discussion around Islam and extremism that we’ve seen here in the past 24 hours.I should do readers the courtesy of explaining my ‘not entirely helpful’ characterisation of the discussion around Islam and extremism that we’ve seen here in the past 24 hours.
Of course the security risks posed by extremism is a serious issue. It would be ludicrous to suggest otherwise. Equally serious as an issue is the fact that no-one quite knows whether de-radicalisation programs actually work.Of course the security risks posed by extremism is a serious issue. It would be ludicrous to suggest otherwise. Equally serious as an issue is the fact that no-one quite knows whether de-radicalisation programs actually work.
But declaring, as Craig Kelly just did during that brief debate, that the future is what we see in Brussels is unhelpful at a number of levels. Declarations like that (as Malcolm Turnbull pointed out in a speech to the Sydney Institute earlier this year in relation to Death Cults coming to get us) risk amplifying the extremist’s agenda, which is fundamentally about creating an environment of fear and division.But declaring, as Craig Kelly just did during that brief debate, that the future is what we see in Brussels is unhelpful at a number of levels. Declarations like that (as Malcolm Turnbull pointed out in a speech to the Sydney Institute earlier this year in relation to Death Cults coming to get us) risk amplifying the extremist’s agenda, which is fundamentally about creating an environment of fear and division.
Security agencies need good links into communities in order to do their job, and to borrow a point from Scott Morrison earlier today, our great strength in Australia is the cohesiveness of our community. Not defaulting automatically to fear of the “other” is more than a worthy abstraction: it makes us safer.Security agencies need good links into communities in order to do their job, and to borrow a point from Scott Morrison earlier today, our great strength in Australia is the cohesiveness of our community. Not defaulting automatically to fear of the “other” is more than a worthy abstraction: it makes us safer.
So these blow hards can posture all they like, feeling brave and unshackled by the constraints of the thought police, but there’s a simple bottom line here: it might appeal to a particular constituency, but it doesn’t make us all safer.So these blow hards can posture all they like, feeling brave and unshackled by the constraints of the thought police, but there’s a simple bottom line here: it might appeal to a particular constituency, but it doesn’t make us all safer.
12.20am GMT00:2012.20am GMT00:20
Minister not required to consider every revocation: citizenshipMinister not required to consider every revocation: citizenship
Daniel HurstDaniel Hurst
Daniel Hurst has been on the trail of citizenship amendments and has this update.Daniel Hurst has been on the trail of citizenship amendments and has this update.
I understand the planned last-minute changes to the citizenship laws involve two elements. The first amendment is largely uncontroversial and involves an apparent drafting error involving the use of an “or” rather than an “and”.I understand the planned last-minute changes to the citizenship laws involve two elements. The first amendment is largely uncontroversial and involves an apparent drafting error involving the use of an “or” rather than an “and”.
I have been told the second amendment relates to the immigration minister’s powers in the case of a dual national who has gone offshore to fight for a terrorist group and is taken to have automatically renounced their Australian citizenship by their conduct. I understand the previous version of the bill would have required the minister to consider in each case whether to exercise a power to rescind the revocation and allow the person to keep their citizenship. The new amendment would continue to give the minister the power to overturn the revocation, but would not require the minister to consider every single case.I have been told the second amendment relates to the immigration minister’s powers in the case of a dual national who has gone offshore to fight for a terrorist group and is taken to have automatically renounced their Australian citizenship by their conduct. I understand the previous version of the bill would have required the minister to consider in each case whether to exercise a power to rescind the revocation and allow the person to keep their citizenship. The new amendment would continue to give the minister the power to overturn the revocation, but would not require the minister to consider every single case.
This tweak essentially boils down to a question of administrative law, and is designed to firm up the commonwealth’s position in the event that a high court challenge is brought against the bill.This tweak essentially boils down to a question of administrative law, and is designed to firm up the commonwealth’s position in the event that a high court challenge is brought against the bill.
12.14am GMT00:1412.14am GMT00:14
Liberal Craig Kelly declares the tyranny of political correctness is stifling an examination of Islam’s role in extremism.Liberal Craig Kelly declares the tyranny of political correctness is stifling an examination of Islam’s role in extremism.
Labor’s Laurie Ferguson is quoting the New York Review of Books in this debate. I suspect that’s not what Christensen had in mind.Labor’s Laurie Ferguson is quoting the New York Review of Books in this debate. I suspect that’s not what Christensen had in mind.
Debate on the motion has now adjourned.Debate on the motion has now adjourned.
12.08am GMT00:0812.08am GMT00:08
'The problem with Islam: discuss, the sequel''The problem with Islam: discuss, the sequel'
The House has begun its sitting for the day. George Christensen, the LNP backbencher who doesn’t mind stumbling inelegantly where angels fear to tread, has moved the following not entirely helpful motion.The House has begun its sitting for the day. George Christensen, the LNP backbencher who doesn’t mind stumbling inelegantly where angels fear to tread, has moved the following not entirely helpful motion.
Mr Christensen, pursuant to notice, movedMr Christensen, pursuant to notice, moved
That this House:That this House:
(1) notes the threat of violent extremism to Australian society;(1) notes the threat of violent extremism to Australian society;
(2) further notes the:(2) further notes the:
(a) acts of terrorism committed by violent extremists within Australia against Australians;(a) acts of terrorism committed by violent extremists within Australia against Australians;
(b) specific terrorism incidents:(b) specific terrorism incidents:
(i) the attack on police officers at Endeavour Hills Police Station in 2014;(i) the attack on police officers at Endeavour Hills Police Station in 2014;
(ii) the seige at Sydney’s Martin Place which resulted in the death of two Australians; and(ii) the seige at Sydney’s Martin Place which resulted in the death of two Australians; and
(iii) most recently the murder of Mr Curtis Cheng at Parramatta Police Station; and(iii) most recently the murder of Mr Curtis Cheng at Parramatta Police Station; and
(c) significant number of Isil recruits coming from Australia;(c) significant number of Isil recruits coming from Australia;
(3) commends the Australian police forces for their efforts in countering terrorism;(3) commends the Australian police forces for their efforts in countering terrorism;
(4) notes the numerous acts of terror which have been prevented because of police efforts, in particular the:(4) notes the numerous acts of terror which have been prevented because of police efforts, in particular the:
(a) attempt by the ‘Sydney Five’ to commit acts of terrorism in the city of Sydney in 2005;(a) attempt by the ‘Sydney Five’ to commit acts of terrorism in the city of Sydney in 2005;
(b) Benbrika Group’s planned bombing of various sporting events in 2005 and 2006 as well as a plot to assassinate former prime minister the Hon. John Howard; and(b) Benbrika Group’s planned bombing of various sporting events in 2005 and 2006 as well as a plot to assassinate former prime minister the Hon. John Howard; and
(c) 2009 plot to storm the Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney;(c) 2009 plot to storm the Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney;
(5) praises the prime minister for his statement in response to the recent terrorism incident in Parramatta, that it is not compulsory to live in Australia and if one finds Australian values unpalatable then ‘there’s a big wide world out there and people have got freedom of movement’; and(5) praises the prime minister for his statement in response to the recent terrorism incident in Parramatta, that it is not compulsory to live in Australia and if one finds Australian values unpalatable then ‘there’s a big wide world out there and people have got freedom of movement’; and
(6) calls for continued action in countering violent extremism and in particular, radical Islam within Australia in order to prevent further acts of terrorism within our borders.(6) calls for continued action in countering violent extremism and in particular, radical Islam within Australia in order to prevent further acts of terrorism within our borders.
Labor’s Tim Watts has just gone ballistic in response.Labor’s Tim Watts has just gone ballistic in response.
This debate is being hijacked by ignorant and irresponsible members of the Coalition, he says.This debate is being hijacked by ignorant and irresponsible members of the Coalition, he says.
Updated at 12.12am GMTUpdated at 12.12am GMT
11.58pm GMT23:5811.58pm GMT23:58
With climate change the other big issue of the week, I really can’t resist this counterpoint.With climate change the other big issue of the week, I really can’t resist this counterpoint.
The environment minister Greg Hunt was asked on ABC radio this morning whether the Paris talks would “succeed” (ie: produce an agreement) because the bar is being set too low.The environment minister Greg Hunt was asked on ABC radio this morning whether the Paris talks would “succeed” (ie: produce an agreement) because the bar is being set too low.
Q: Is that a risk here?Q: Is that a risk here?
Greg Hunt:Greg Hunt:
No, I don’t think so. I think that there is a sense of gravitas, importance and responsibility.No, I don’t think so. I think that there is a sense of gravitas, importance and responsibility.
Now my colleague, Lenore Taylor, on the real world scenario confronting the planet post-Paris due to past inaction.Now my colleague, Lenore Taylor, on the real world scenario confronting the planet post-Paris due to past inaction.
Even if every pledge is met in Paris (they have so far been received from 166 countries responsible for more than 90% of the world’s emissions) global warming will still hit at least 2.7C and might even rise to 3.5C – an outcome science tells us will still cause Australian cities like Perth to experience 50% more days with temperatures over 45C, reduce winter and spring rainfall in the southeastern Australian food bowl, increase the frequency and severity of droughts and increase the number of days of extreme fire danger in southern eastern Australia.Even if every pledge is met in Paris (they have so far been received from 166 countries responsible for more than 90% of the world’s emissions) global warming will still hit at least 2.7C and might even rise to 3.5C – an outcome science tells us will still cause Australian cities like Perth to experience 50% more days with temperatures over 45C, reduce winter and spring rainfall in the southeastern Australian food bowl, increase the frequency and severity of droughts and increase the number of days of extreme fire danger in southern eastern Australia.
Without an agreement, those impacts would be worse.Without an agreement, those impacts would be worse.
One man’s gravitas ..One man’s gravitas ..
11.49pm GMT23:4911.49pm GMT23:49
If like (e’hem, me) you need to jolt your brain back into active service on the current state of play about citizenship, my colleague Daniel Hurst produced this news wrap late last week.If like (e’hem, me) you need to jolt your brain back into active service on the current state of play about citizenship, my colleague Daniel Hurst produced this news wrap late last week.
Here’s what the attorney general, George Brandis, said about the late amendments.Here’s what the attorney general, George Brandis, said about the late amendments.
They don’t reflect a policy change, they don’t reflect a change at substance, don’t reflect a change to the machinery or operation of the bill. They are essentially of a technical, constitutional character.They don’t reflect a policy change, they don’t reflect a change at substance, don’t reflect a change to the machinery or operation of the bill. They are essentially of a technical, constitutional character.
Today, we’ll see if that characterisation is correct.Today, we’ll see if that characterisation is correct.
11.25pm GMT23:2511.25pm GMT23:25
There is talk about there being an additional amendment to the citizenship package that wasn’t expected. I’ll follow as this comes together over the course of the morning. Colleagues are chasing particulars as we speak.There is talk about there being an additional amendment to the citizenship package that wasn’t expected. I’ll follow as this comes together over the course of the morning. Colleagues are chasing particulars as we speak.
11.23pm GMT23:2311.23pm GMT23:23
Can you ‘run aground’ in the high court? You sharp folks know what I mean ..Can you ‘run aground’ in the high court? You sharp folks know what I mean ..
11.22pm GMT23:2211.22pm GMT23:22
Special caucus meeting to consider the citizenship packageSpecial caucus meeting to consider the citizenship package
I haven’t had much of a chance to get into the citizenship laws, which are on the notice paper for debate in the House of Representatives. Labor has convened a special caucus meeting to discuss the government’s legislation at 11am. We expect the government will amend its own legislation in an effort to try and make the package constitutional. There have been a range of expert legal opinions suggesting that the citizenship revocation proposal originally framed by the government would run aground in the high court.I haven’t had much of a chance to get into the citizenship laws, which are on the notice paper for debate in the House of Representatives. Labor has convened a special caucus meeting to discuss the government’s legislation at 11am. We expect the government will amend its own legislation in an effort to try and make the package constitutional. There have been a range of expert legal opinions suggesting that the citizenship revocation proposal originally framed by the government would run aground in the high court.
11.14pm GMT23:1411.14pm GMT23:14
I should have noted before that the Labor leader Bill Shorten stopped off to visit Australian troops stationed in the Middle East en route to the climate talks in Paris.I should have noted before that the Labor leader Bill Shorten stopped off to visit Australian troops stationed in the Middle East en route to the climate talks in Paris.
A statement from the Shorten office characterises the visit thus:A statement from the Shorten office characterises the visit thus:
I acknowledged that for many, their deployment will mean they’re away from friends and family for Christmas. These men and women are doing a remarkable job in difficult circumstances. Their bravery, professionalism and skill is a credit to them and a source of pride for all Australians. While visiting, I was briefed on operations across the Middle East, had discussions with Australian forces and took time out to go for a jog with personnel.I acknowledged that for many, their deployment will mean they’re away from friends and family for Christmas. These men and women are doing a remarkable job in difficult circumstances. Their bravery, professionalism and skill is a credit to them and a source of pride for all Australians. While visiting, I was briefed on operations across the Middle East, had discussions with Australian forces and took time out to go for a jog with personnel.
11.01pm GMT23:0111.01pm GMT23:01
The questioning turns to the budget.The questioning turns to the budget.
Still in shake it off mode, Morrison bats back the dire sounding Deloitte budget forecasts this morning. We’ll give you the full picture in Myefo, he says, until then just wait patiently.Still in shake it off mode, Morrison bats back the dire sounding Deloitte budget forecasts this morning. We’ll give you the full picture in Myefo, he says, until then just wait patiently.
Morrison:Morrison:
What you will get from me as treasurer, what you will get from the prime minister, what you will get from this government is a very honest and sober view about where we are heading but an optimistic view which is based on realism. You won’t hear me making ambitious targets around these issues on when we return the budget to surplus.What you will get from me as treasurer, what you will get from the prime minister, what you will get from this government is a very honest and sober view about where we are heading but an optimistic view which is based on realism. You won’t hear me making ambitious targets around these issues on when we return the budget to surplus.
What we will do is the work that is needed to be done every day to return the budget to surplus. The projections of that will be subject to many variables, some of which go well beyond the government’s control. Previous governments have stood stood there hairy chested at the dispatch box and promised four years of surpluses. Treasurer Swan as a result looked quite foolish. I am not going to go down that path. I will go on about the work of restoring the budget.What we will do is the work that is needed to be done every day to return the budget to surplus. The projections of that will be subject to many variables, some of which go well beyond the government’s control. Previous governments have stood stood there hairy chested at the dispatch box and promised four years of surpluses. Treasurer Swan as a result looked quite foolish. I am not going to go down that path. I will go on about the work of restoring the budget.
(Budget emergency over then it would seem.)(Budget emergency over then it would seem.)
He’s asked about the childcare package, which is one focus of this final parliamentary week. Will the government proceed with the childcare spend if it can’t get the savings from cuts to family tax benefits?He’s asked about the childcare package, which is one focus of this final parliamentary week. Will the government proceed with the childcare spend if it can’t get the savings from cuts to family tax benefits?
Morrison:Morrison:
We have made it very clear, we pay for our commitments. You don’t run a budget by announcing more spending and proceeding with the spending without making the save.We have made it very clear, we pay for our commitments. You don’t run a budget by announcing more spending and proceeding with the spending without making the save.
10.53pm GMT22:5310.53pm GMT22:53
Morrison questioning, continuing:Morrison questioning, continuing:
Q: Do you agree with Josh Frydenberg there is a problem with Islam and this is resulting in terror attacks?Q: Do you agree with Josh Frydenberg there is a problem with Islam and this is resulting in terror attacks?
I think all religions go through phases in this country. My own, many others, over a period of time ... the components (of religion) become more indigenised. That is true of Christianity, the Jewish faith, the Muslim faith. The cultural representation of Islam in the Middle East is different to what it is in Malaysia, in Indonesia, or Africa or different parts of the world. I think one of the positive things about Australia is it’s such an overwhelming cultural set of values that those always have an influence over time and I’m sure that will continue to be the case and that will lead I think to a more accessible and a more open and transparent way of doing things. That’s been the case with other religions. I have no reason to believe it won’t be the case with Islam.I think all religions go through phases in this country. My own, many others, over a period of time ... the components (of religion) become more indigenised. That is true of Christianity, the Jewish faith, the Muslim faith. The cultural representation of Islam in the Middle East is different to what it is in Malaysia, in Indonesia, or Africa or different parts of the world. I think one of the positive things about Australia is it’s such an overwhelming cultural set of values that those always have an influence over time and I’m sure that will continue to be the case and that will lead I think to a more accessible and a more open and transparent way of doing things. That’s been the case with other religions. I have no reason to believe it won’t be the case with Islam.
Q: When you talk to Muslim leaders in Australia, do you think they are facing up to the problems within Islam that are highlighted by events like the Paris terrorist attack? Do you think Muslim leaders in Australia are facing up to that?Q: When you talk to Muslim leaders in Australia, do you think they are facing up to the problems within Islam that are highlighted by events like the Paris terrorist attack? Do you think Muslim leaders in Australia are facing up to that?
Morrison:Morrison:
Look, there are many different leaders within the Islamic community. It is not the sort of representational structure that you see in other organised religions in Australia. It’s quite different. I think the commentary that assumes very similar structures fails to get it, frankly. The grand mufti is not like the senior cardinal in Australia or whoever. It is a very different structure. So they are working through those issues. They are matters for them.Look, there are many different leaders within the Islamic community. It is not the sort of representational structure that you see in other organised religions in Australia. It’s quite different. I think the commentary that assumes very similar structures fails to get it, frankly. The grand mufti is not like the senior cardinal in Australia or whoever. It is a very different structure. So they are working through those issues. They are matters for them.
I think they’re positive discussions, particularly among younger people of the Muslim faith. They have very different views to their leaders as well about how things should be managed. That’s a positive discussion for them to have. Look, I think that’s the reality of it.I think they’re positive discussions, particularly among younger people of the Muslim faith. They have very different views to their leaders as well about how things should be managed. That’s a positive discussion for them to have. Look, I think that’s the reality of it.
I think there is not an Australian of any faith who was naive to the very real risks of terrorism and the very real risk of extremism and how that can lead to violent extremism. That’s why I think all Australians should be on their watch, whatever faith they are a part of, or of no faith at all. The best thing we can do is continue to strive to further improve the great cohesiveness we have as a society. This is our greatest defence against extremism. The cohesive nature of Australia. We are the most successful immigrant country on earth.I think there is not an Australian of any faith who was naive to the very real risks of terrorism and the very real risk of extremism and how that can lead to violent extremism. That’s why I think all Australians should be on their watch, whatever faith they are a part of, or of no faith at all. The best thing we can do is continue to strive to further improve the great cohesiveness we have as a society. This is our greatest defence against extremism. The cohesive nature of Australia. We are the most successful immigrant country on earth.
Q: Do comments like what Mr Frydenberg said yesterday undermine that social cohesion, they point the finger of blame at one religion over another?Q: Do comments like what Mr Frydenberg said yesterday undermine that social cohesion, they point the finger of blame at one religion over another?
Morrison:Morrison:
No, I don’t think that’s what he did. What doesn’t help is those sorts of characterisations of what he said.No, I don’t think that’s what he did. What doesn’t help is those sorts of characterisations of what he said.
Updated at 11.09pm GMTUpdated at 11.09pm GMT
10.46pm GMT22:4610.46pm GMT22:46
After that flogging by a wet fish Morrison has now been discovered by press gallery types keen to pursue the various threads of the morning. They start with Hartcher. What anyone said to anyone else on the leadership is an issue of no consequence, Morrison says. The stuff of tin foil hat conspiracies.After that flogging by a wet fish Morrison has now been discovered by press gallery types keen to pursue the various threads of the morning. They start with Hartcher. What anyone said to anyone else on the leadership is an issue of no consequence, Morrison says. The stuff of tin foil hat conspiracies.
Mind the alfoil.Mind the alfoil.
Scott Morrison:Scott Morrison:
What happened in February and what happened later in the year were completely different issues and you should shake it off.What happened in February and what happened later in the year were completely different issues and you should shake it off.
Just in case we missed the Tay Tay reference, Morrison demonstrated the technique for photographers in the 2GB studio just before.Just in case we missed the Tay Tay reference, Morrison demonstrated the technique for photographers in the 2GB studio just before.
Haters gonna hate. You know it.Haters gonna hate. You know it.
Updated at 10.49pm GMTUpdated at 10.49pm GMT
10.40pm GMT22:4010.40pm GMT22:40
Ray moves on by wondering why Morrison is not out and about expressing the Josh Frydenberg deep feeling on Islam and the Grand Mufti (that I drew our collective attention to earlier on this morning). Once he was the great attack dog, now he’s ScoMo 2.0.Ray moves on by wondering why Morrison is not out and about expressing the Josh Frydenberg deep feeling on Islam and the Grand Mufti (that I drew our collective attention to earlier on this morning). Once he was the great attack dog, now he’s ScoMo 2.0.
Ray notes that he used to advise Tony Abbott to “give it to these people” and “get off the chain.” But Tony thought he’d better focus on being prime minister.Ray notes that he used to advise Tony Abbott to “give it to these people” and “get off the chain.” But Tony thought he’d better focus on being prime minister.
Have you lost your voice Scott, Ray wonders?Have you lost your voice Scott, Ray wonders?
No, Ray, says Scott.No, Ray, says Scott.
I think I’ve been very consistent on this over a long period of time.I think I’ve been very consistent on this over a long period of time.
Morrison notes that the government needs to work closely with the Islamic community in order to enhance the security environment. For the record, he agrees with Frydenberg that the Mufti “let down his own people.”Morrison notes that the government needs to work closely with the Islamic community in order to enhance the security environment. For the record, he agrees with Frydenberg that the Mufti “let down his own people.”
10.32pm GMT22:3210.32pm GMT22:32
Hadley goes to waterHadley goes to water
Mwah. So sweet.Mwah. So sweet.
Ray Hadley is gearing up for his weekly chat this morning with Scott Morrison this morning by reading Peter Hartcher to his listeners. It sounds ominous. Ray reminds his listeners that he tried to made Morrison swear on the Bible that he had not done wrong by Tony Abbott. He notes their relationship reached an impasse, but now it continues.Ray Hadley is gearing up for his weekly chat this morning with Scott Morrison this morning by reading Peter Hartcher to his listeners. It sounds ominous. Ray reminds his listeners that he tried to made Morrison swear on the Bible that he had not done wrong by Tony Abbott. He notes their relationship reached an impasse, but now it continues.
But rather than accelerating towards his normal outrage, Ray is deflating before our very eyes. Ray thinks he’s heard all this before. It’s now boring. Will he subject Captain Cronulla to a grilling? No, he won’t.But rather than accelerating towards his normal outrage, Ray is deflating before our very eyes. Ray thinks he’s heard all this before. It’s now boring. Will he subject Captain Cronulla to a grilling? No, he won’t.
I’ve done all this before.I’ve done all this before.
Scott Morrison agrees an interrogation on this subject would be a terrible waste of Ray’s time.Scott Morrison agrees an interrogation on this subject would be a terrible waste of Ray’s time.
It’s old news.It’s old news.
Updated at 10.38pm GMTUpdated at 10.38pm GMT
10.25pm GMT22:2510.25pm GMT22:25
'The problem with the budget: discuss''The problem with the budget: discuss'
It’s the deficit, stupid. My colleague and the co-owner of this blog, Gabrielle Chan, reports this morning budget deficits to 2018-19 will blow out to $38bn larger than expected, according a Deloitte Access Economics report, which blames the China slowdown and “gridlock” in the Senate for a cut in revenue.It’s the deficit, stupid. My colleague and the co-owner of this blog, Gabrielle Chan, reports this morning budget deficits to 2018-19 will blow out to $38bn larger than expected, according a Deloitte Access Economics report, which blames the China slowdown and “gridlock” in the Senate for a cut in revenue.
My neighbour Shane Wright, economic correspondent for the West Australian, meanwhile reports that the mid year budget update (one of the great joys of December) will be released in Perth the week after next.My neighbour Shane Wright, economic correspondent for the West Australian, meanwhile reports that the mid year budget update (one of the great joys of December) will be released in Perth the week after next.
Perth? Wut?Perth? Wut?
(A little birdie tells me the finance minister, Mathias Cormann, is expecting a new baby very soon. The finance minister calls Perth home. I suspect the assorted Canberra pol/eco hackery will be setting their GPS due west once the parliamentary year ends.)(A little birdie tells me the finance minister, Mathias Cormann, is expecting a new baby very soon. The finance minister calls Perth home. I suspect the assorted Canberra pol/eco hackery will be setting their GPS due west once the parliamentary year ends.)
Updated at 10.31pm GMTUpdated at 10.31pm GMT
10.14pm GMT22:1410.14pm GMT22:14
'The problem with Islam: discuss''The problem with Islam: discuss'
Other bits and pieces in the news cycle this morning.Other bits and pieces in the news cycle this morning.
Various government types are out reflecting on what we can term “the problem with Islam: discuss”.Various government types are out reflecting on what we can term “the problem with Islam: discuss”.
The resources minister, Josh Frydenberg, thought on Sky News yesterday morning that members of the Islamic community must acknowledge that a “small but significant” number of its adherents are extremists. He also gave the grand mufti a swift kick on the way through.The resources minister, Josh Frydenberg, thought on Sky News yesterday morning that members of the Islamic community must acknowledge that a “small but significant” number of its adherents are extremists. He also gave the grand mufti a swift kick on the way through.
Josh Frydenberg:Josh Frydenberg:
We have to acknowledge that religion is part of this problem. I would say it is a problem within Islam.We have to acknowledge that religion is part of this problem. I would say it is a problem within Islam.
Then a number of colleagues thought they might join in via comments to Rosie Lewis in the Australian. Andrew Nikolic felt terrorists had “hijacked” Islam for their own “perverse, barbaric purposes”.Then a number of colleagues thought they might join in via comments to Rosie Lewis in the Australian. Andrew Nikolic felt terrorists had “hijacked” Islam for their own “perverse, barbaric purposes”.
It is therefore vital that the Muslim leadership or grand mufti are speaking with one voice in those issues. The last thing we want is mixed messages to young Muslims who seem to be attracted to transnational terrorism in increasing numbers. I think the grand mufti failed in that role with his initial response … when religious motivation for these attacks is very strong.It is therefore vital that the Muslim leadership or grand mufti are speaking with one voice in those issues. The last thing we want is mixed messages to young Muslims who seem to be attracted to transnational terrorism in increasing numbers. I think the grand mufti failed in that role with his initial response … when religious motivation for these attacks is very strong.
Over in the Herald Sun, Andrew Hastie had some feelings too.Over in the Herald Sun, Andrew Hastie had some feelings too.
Modern Islam needs to cohere with the Australian way of life, our values and institutions. In so far as it doesn’t, it needs reform.Modern Islam needs to cohere with the Australian way of life, our values and institutions. In so far as it doesn’t, it needs reform.
In case you haven’t been following this debate, in recent times the prime minister has been going out of his way to hose down this sort of talk in an effort to build bridges with the Islamic community.In case you haven’t been following this debate, in recent times the prime minister has been going out of his way to hose down this sort of talk in an effort to build bridges with the Islamic community.
Watch this space.Watch this space.
Updated at 10.30pm GMTUpdated at 10.30pm GMT
9.57pm GMT21:579.57pm GMT21:57
Meanwhile, on a tennis court, not that far away, it’s the match of the century – the serially competitive Albo versus the serially ebullient Bruce Billson.Meanwhile, on a tennis court, not that far away, it’s the match of the century – the serially competitive Albo versus the serially ebullient Bruce Billson.
Thwock. Boom. Blast.Thwock. Boom. Blast.
Good morning Mike Bowers.Good morning Mike Bowers.
9.48pm GMT21:489.48pm GMT21:48
I think Turnbull’s contribution at the UN climate summit is tomorrow our time but The Australian is telling us this morning the prime minister will hold open the prospect of increasing Australia’s current emissions reduction target – which, if true, would not be a shock, given he’s been laying the ground for that over quite some period of time.I think Turnbull’s contribution at the UN climate summit is tomorrow our time but The Australian is telling us this morning the prime minister will hold open the prospect of increasing Australia’s current emissions reduction target – which, if true, would not be a shock, given he’s been laying the ground for that over quite some period of time.
Turnbull has been trying to walk a line with climate policy: not upending the Direct Action policy he inherited from Tony Abbott (that would be an act of war with the conservative wing of his own party) but signalling it and other climate actions might change if they need to change. When he was in Manila recently for the Apec summit, Turnbull said rather airily the government might draw on international permits to boost the overall emissions reduction effort (a perfectly sensible concept that was regarded as a thought crime in Tony Abbott’s time.)Turnbull has been trying to walk a line with climate policy: not upending the Direct Action policy he inherited from Tony Abbott (that would be an act of war with the conservative wing of his own party) but signalling it and other climate actions might change if they need to change. When he was in Manila recently for the Apec summit, Turnbull said rather airily the government might draw on international permits to boost the overall emissions reduction effort (a perfectly sensible concept that was regarded as a thought crime in Tony Abbott’s time.)
How Turnbull pivots out of Australia’s currently suboptimal climate policy into a more workable system is one of his key tests as prime minister. Turnbull knows Direct Action is a dud, he’s said as much publicly. If he persists with Abbott’s policy framework over the long haul without any adjustment it will expose him as being completely devoid of principle.How Turnbull pivots out of Australia’s currently suboptimal climate policy into a more workable system is one of his key tests as prime minister. Turnbull knows Direct Action is a dud, he’s said as much publicly. If he persists with Abbott’s policy framework over the long haul without any adjustment it will expose him as being completely devoid of principle.
But he has to carry the party with him, and this is the same party that elevated idiocy to an art form with Tony Abbott’s populist, anti-reason assault against carbon pricing. The timeframe Turnbull’s working on is careful iterations now and adjustments after the next federal election, should the government be returned.But he has to carry the party with him, and this is the same party that elevated idiocy to an art form with Tony Abbott’s populist, anti-reason assault against carbon pricing. The timeframe Turnbull’s working on is careful iterations now and adjustments after the next federal election, should the government be returned.
Labor is attempting to make sure Turnbull doesn’t, as Bill Shorten puts it, sell out to the right of the Liberal party on climate change.Labor is attempting to make sure Turnbull doesn’t, as Bill Shorten puts it, sell out to the right of the Liberal party on climate change.
Shorten, as I’ve mentioned, is an observer in Paris, attempting to play externalised conscience. The Labor leader has done a radio interview in Australia this morning, on the theme of “Malcolm Turnbull in Tony Abbott’s clothing” at the Paris climate summit.Shorten, as I’ve mentioned, is an observer in Paris, attempting to play externalised conscience. The Labor leader has done a radio interview in Australia this morning, on the theme of “Malcolm Turnbull in Tony Abbott’s clothing” at the Paris climate summit.
Shorten says he gets Abbott being a climate change wrecker but ...Shorten says he gets Abbott being a climate change wrecker but ...
.. what’s Malcolm Turnbull’s excuse?.. what’s Malcolm Turnbull’s excuse?
He gets climate change.He gets climate change.
Updated at 9.59pm GMTUpdated at 9.59pm GMT
9.25pm GMT21:259.25pm GMT21:25
Thanks to my colleague Shalailah Medhora for the Morrison quotes, which are from the Viewpoint show.Thanks to my colleague Shalailah Medhora for the Morrison quotes, which are from the Viewpoint show.
9.18pm GMT21:189.18pm GMT21:18
Scott Morrison, fire fighterScott Morrison, fire fighter
To Scott Morrison now, and the events of February. Morrison was asked on Sky News whether he was offered treasury by Turnbull early in 2015.To Scott Morrison now, and the events of February. Morrison was asked on Sky News whether he was offered treasury by Turnbull early in 2015.
Scott Morrison:Scott Morrison:
I do recollect talking to Malcolm Turnbull, he’s a cabinet colleague of mine, it wasn’t that extraordinary that cabinet colleagues would talk to each other.I do recollect talking to Malcolm Turnbull, he’s a cabinet colleague of mine, it wasn’t that extraordinary that cabinet colleagues would talk to each other.
Q: About the leadership issues and the treasury position?Q: About the leadership issues and the treasury position?
It was a difficult time and we had a backbench-initiated spill motion. That’s almost a year ago now. It’s all well in the past. Nothing came of it.It was a difficult time and we had a backbench-initiated spill motion. That’s almost a year ago now. It’s all well in the past. Nothing came of it.
There was no arrangement, no deal, no offers, none of this stuff. I think it was just excited commentary, and it sounds like people are trying to get a lot out the door in terms of Christmas purchases of books.There was no arrangement, no deal, no offers, none of this stuff. I think it was just excited commentary, and it sounds like people are trying to get a lot out the door in terms of Christmas purchases of books.
That’s what’s known in the trade as the non-denial denial.That’s what’s known in the trade as the non-denial denial.
Couple of thoughts on this.Couple of thoughts on this.
Updated at 9.49pm GMTUpdated at 9.49pm GMT
8.53pm GMT20:538.53pm GMT20:53
Good morningGood morning
Hello good people and welcome to bedlam. We have entered the final parliamentary sitting week of 2015. The long range atmospheric forecast is scattered, with a strong chance of chaos.Hello good people and welcome to bedlam. We have entered the final parliamentary sitting week of 2015. The long range atmospheric forecast is scattered, with a strong chance of chaos.
Let’s start with scattered.Let’s start with scattered.
Malcolm Turnbull has arrived in Paris to make his short presentation at the UN climate talks. The opposition leader Bill Shorten is also in the French capital – presumably with an aspiration to be the prime minister’s externalised conscience when it comes to the current ambition of Australia’s emissions reduction targets.Malcolm Turnbull has arrived in Paris to make his short presentation at the UN climate talks. The opposition leader Bill Shorten is also in the French capital – presumably with an aspiration to be the prime minister’s externalised conscience when it comes to the current ambition of Australia’s emissions reduction targets.
Before hitting the climate shindig, Turnbull stopped first at the Bataclan concert venue with the New Zealand prime minister John Key.Before hitting the climate shindig, Turnbull stopped first at the Bataclan concert venue with the New Zealand prime minister John Key.
The two leaders paid their respects at the venue that bore the brunt of the horrific terror attacks in the city just a couple of weeks ago. I see from the TV feed that the PM tried a little French during his visit at the theatre.The two leaders paid their respects at the venue that bore the brunt of the horrific terror attacks in the city just a couple of weeks ago. I see from the TV feed that the PM tried a little French during his visit at the theatre.
Turnbull made some brief remarks (in English) before laying a wreath.Turnbull made some brief remarks (in English) before laying a wreath.
We are here – the New Zealand prime minister and the Australian prime minister and our wives – and we are here offering the people of France, the people of Paris, our most heartfelt condolences and our unflinching solidarity in the face of this terrorism. We are all together. We are with France. We are with the people of Paris. We are with all people committed to freedom in this battle against terrorism, against violence, against violent extremism.We are here – the New Zealand prime minister and the Australian prime minister and our wives – and we are here offering the people of France, the people of Paris, our most heartfelt condolences and our unflinching solidarity in the face of this terrorism. We are all together. We are with France. We are with the people of Paris. We are with all people committed to freedom in this battle against terrorism, against violence, against violent extremism.
My live coverage of national politics this week will loop in the events in the other hemisphere as much as possible. Marvellously my colleague Lenore Taylor is now wheels down in Paris and will be covering the summit developments.My live coverage of national politics this week will loop in the events in the other hemisphere as much as possible. Marvellously my colleague Lenore Taylor is now wheels down in Paris and will be covering the summit developments.
Now, to chaos.Now, to chaos.
The last week of parliament is always ears pinned back, hair flying and this week is unlikely to be an exception. Parliament needs to get through a bunch of business this week, including the controversial citizenship legislation which is part of the counter terror package(s).The last week of parliament is always ears pinned back, hair flying and this week is unlikely to be an exception. Parliament needs to get through a bunch of business this week, including the controversial citizenship legislation which is part of the counter terror package(s).
Outside chamber nuts and bolts there’s also some embers burning again courtesy of Fairfax Media’s Peter Hartcher tossing over the Abbott/Turnbull leadership fire. Hartcher revives the story this morning that Scott Morrison was offered the treasury portfolio by Malcolm Turnbull in the run up to the failed spill motion in February. Morrison has already been out on that and I’ll talk you through that in the next post.Outside chamber nuts and bolts there’s also some embers burning again courtesy of Fairfax Media’s Peter Hartcher tossing over the Abbott/Turnbull leadership fire. Hartcher revives the story this morning that Scott Morrison was offered the treasury portfolio by Malcolm Turnbull in the run up to the failed spill motion in February. Morrison has already been out on that and I’ll talk you through that in the next post.
In the meantime, the comments thread is wide open for your business and we are up and at ‘em on the Twits @murpharoo and @mpbowersIn the meantime, the comments thread is wide open for your business and we are up and at ‘em on the Twits @murpharoo and @mpbowers
Buckle up. Here comes Monday.Buckle up. Here comes Monday.
Updated at 1.12am GMT