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Bill Shorten says Labor will be sensible about dual citizens – question time live Bill Shorten says Labor will be sensible about dual citizens – question time live
(34 minutes later)
We might be surprised that the government has turned out as good as it has – but well done to the people of Australia ..
That was the prime minister a minute ago. Yes, it was.
Earlier today, the immigration minister Peter Dutton had this to say on the radio.
If people are going to try and you know, this barbaric act of trying to cut people’s heads off or blow people up, well, I’m sorry, you don’t deserve to be an Australian citizen.
Now, Richard Marles is copping it.
Peter Dutton:
Madam Speaker, that man (Marles, Labor’s immigration spokesman) is unknown to the Australian public but he is actually the opposition immigration spokesperson. He’s opposed to turn backs and in support of bringing back failed Labor policies which resulted in 52,000 people coming to our country on 800 boats, and during that period of time, worse than that, 1,200 people drowned at sea – so don’t lecture us when it comes to bipartisanship on important national security matters.
Economic growth now. Labor’s Chris Bowen.
Q: Why was there zero growth in domestic demand in the March quarter and why was there zero growth in retail trade in April?
Joe Hockey:
Last quarter, we had 0.9% growth – 0.9% growth. The United States last quarter had minus 0.2%, Japan had 0.6%, Germany 0.3%, France 0.6%, UK 0.3%, Italy 0.3%, Canada minus 0.1%, Korea 0.8%, Taiwan 0.7%, Hong Kong 0.3%, Singapore 0.8%. We were faster than all those countries and the Labor Party is upset about it.
Shame on the Labor Party.
Foreign minister, Julie Bishop, back from Paris, is updating the house on the conference she attended concerning the rise of Islamic State.
She’s also confiming she’s listed Neil Prakash, an Australian citizen formerly of Melbourne and currently believed to be in Syria, for targeted financial sanctions under Part 4 of the Charter of the United Nations Act 1945.
Julie Bishop:
Prakash has sought to commission violent terrorist acts, including in Australia. He has exploited social media to spread violent extremism and to recruit others including young women and girls to travel to Syria and Iraq to join Daesh.
I should say that’s Pyne’s version of the evidence at the royal commission. I’m not saying he’s wrong, but not having followed the issue this week, I’m just being clear – this is his description of the evidence.
Onwards.
Manager of government business, Christopher Pyne. Mining evidence given at the trade union royal commission.
I was shocked, Madam Speaker, shocked to read in the newspaper this morning in the ‘Herald Sun’ that the Australian Workers’ Union led by Cesar Melhem and the state secretary at the time, who was Mr Shorten, in 2005 – they signed up the entire membership of the Australian Netball Players Association. The Australian Netball Players Association, Madam Speaker, and then sent them an invoice for $9,000 without their knowledge, to boost their membership numbers so they would get more votes inside the ALP for pre-selections and at the state councils.
So you can just imagine, Madam Speaker, the poor old netball mums turning up on Saturday morning to play, expecting to get their goal defence bib, instead they get a high vis vest and a hard hat.
Getting back into stride, we’ve had health questions and employment questions.
Labor’s Tanya Plibersek.
Q: My question is to the prime minister. Has the prime minister referred the serious leaks from his cabinet on national security issues to the Australian Federal Police?
The prime minister doesn’t answer the question. He lobs his line du jour, the line I love so much.
Tony Abbott:
We are absolutely crystal clear that someone who raises a gun or a knife to any Australian because of who we are has absolutely forfeited any right to be considered one of us.
It’s worth pausing a moment to step through this issue.
Two purposes to this question.
Substance, and psychology, messing with minds.
Is this a meat slicer I see before me?Is this a meat slicer I see before me?
Budget Measures will give Wes & James of Elite Meats well deserved time off with the purchase of a new bacon slicer pic.twitter.com/LqUVWgnLIQBudget Measures will give Wes & James of Elite Meats well deserved time off with the purchase of a new bacon slicer pic.twitter.com/LqUVWgnLIQ
Abbott, continuing, in the feeeeeelll the cooperation vein.Abbott, continuing, in the feeeeeelll the cooperation vein.
As far as I’m concerned, as far as the government’s concerned, we will provide all appropriate briefings in a timely fashion to the opposition, to opposition front benchers, so that as far as reasonably possible, the bipartisanship on this important issue can be maintained.As far as I’m concerned, as far as the government’s concerned, we will provide all appropriate briefings in a timely fashion to the opposition, to opposition front benchers, so that as far as reasonably possible, the bipartisanship on this important issue can be maintained.
Bill Shorten:Bill Shorten:
Q: The prime minister knows that we have already agreed in principle and said so publicly that dual citizens who fight against Australia with a terrorist group should be stripped of their right to be an Australian. So why is the prime minister persistently undermining constructive bipartisanship on national security?Q: The prime minister knows that we have already agreed in principle and said so publicly that dual citizens who fight against Australia with a terrorist group should be stripped of their right to be an Australian. So why is the prime minister persistently undermining constructive bipartisanship on national security?
Tony Abbott, (not unreasonably):Tony Abbott, (not unreasonably):
If he’s prepared to support it today why did he call it dog whistling yesterday?If he’s prepared to support it today why did he call it dog whistling yesterday?
The prime minister goes on to note that the Labor leader had interjected dog whistling yesterday during one of the terrorism Dorothy Dixers.The prime minister goes on to note that the Labor leader had interjected dog whistling yesterday during one of the terrorism Dorothy Dixers.
Shorten withdrew the comment.Shorten withdrew the comment.
Tony Abbott:Tony Abbott:
He said that stripping the citizenship from citizens with dual nationality was dog whistling.He said that stripping the citizenship from citizens with dual nationality was dog whistling.
What I want to hear from the leader of the opposition right now is his statement that, yes, he supports, that he supports, stripping citizenship from terrorists with dual nationality because, Madam Speaker, if he’s not prepared to back that, he just doesn’t get it when the comes to the national security of our country.What I want to hear from the leader of the opposition right now is his statement that, yes, he supports, that he supports, stripping citizenship from terrorists with dual nationality because, Madam Speaker, if he’s not prepared to back that, he just doesn’t get it when the comes to the national security of our country.
I am absolutely delighted to get a question from the leader of the opposition about last week’s cabinet meeting because last week’s cabinet meeting made a decision.I am absolutely delighted to get a question from the leader of the opposition about last week’s cabinet meeting because last week’s cabinet meeting made a decision.
A clear decision.A clear decision.
That’s Tony Abbott too, in response to another question from Labor about cabinet leaks.That’s Tony Abbott too, in response to another question from Labor about cabinet leaks.
Labor breaks into applause. Hooray.Labor breaks into applause. Hooray.
The prime minister is not amused.The prime minister is not amused.
I can report to the House, Madam Speaker, that Elite Meats are buying an automatic meat slicer thanks to the instant asset write-off that the treasurer brought in.I can report to the House, Madam Speaker, that Elite Meats are buying an automatic meat slicer thanks to the instant asset write-off that the treasurer brought in.
This is the prime minister. Yep, it is. Update from the Belco butcher.This is the prime minister. Yep, it is. Update from the Belco butcher.
From chundering to the hour of glower. Neat little segue, that.From chundering to the hour of glower. Neat little segue, that.
Labor has asked the prime minister when it will get a briefing about citizenship. The prime minister repeats what he said at his media event at the butcher shop. You’ll get a briefing when the legislation is in the parliament.Labor has asked the prime minister when it will get a briefing about citizenship. The prime minister repeats what he said at his media event at the butcher shop. You’ll get a briefing when the legislation is in the parliament.
(Feeeeeeelll, the cooperation. Feel it.)(Feeeeeeelll, the cooperation. Feel it.)
You’ll see what he did here.You’ll see what he did here.
Nick Xenophon, on Fifa whistleblower Chuck Blazer.Nick Xenophon, on Fifa whistleblower Chuck Blazer.
What a great name – Chuck Blazer. If only it was Chuck Blazer III, it would have more of a ring to it.What a great name – Chuck Blazer. If only it was Chuck Blazer III, it would have more of a ring to it.
Well, I think Chuck’s revelations are pretty chunderous. That was a terrible line, I’m sorry.Well, I think Chuck’s revelations are pretty chunderous. That was a terrible line, I’m sorry.
Over in the Mural Hall, independent Nick Xenophon is calling for a Senate inquiry to examine the Australian end of the global football scandal.Over in the Mural Hall, independent Nick Xenophon is calling for a Senate inquiry to examine the Australian end of the global football scandal.
Xenophon:Xenophon:
I think a Senate inquiry will give us some very good answers as to what went wrong, whether there were appropriate governance and probity provisions in the $42.25m of taxpayers’ funds that were spent for the failed (world cup) bid.I think a Senate inquiry will give us some very good answers as to what went wrong, whether there were appropriate governance and probity provisions in the $42.25m of taxpayers’ funds that were spent for the failed (world cup) bid.
The treasurer Joe Hockey is on Sky News. He’s asked about the difference between what he’s saying and what his departmental head has been saying on housing and on superannuation concessions.The treasurer Joe Hockey is on Sky News. He’s asked about the difference between what he’s saying and what his departmental head has been saying on housing and on superannuation concessions.
We are at one on this.We are at one on this.
(Hockey and secretary John Fraser are at one on super. They are not at one on housing bubbles.)(Hockey and secretary John Fraser are at one on super. They are not at one on housing bubbles.)
Moving forward.Moving forward.
Hockey’s asked whether there is any wriggle room on reducing the generosity of super concessions ahead of the coming election. The treasurer says the government has made it clear there will be nothing this term.Hockey’s asked whether there is any wriggle room on reducing the generosity of super concessions ahead of the coming election. The treasurer says the government has made it clear there will be nothing this term.
Q: What about a second term?Q: What about a second term?
We’ve got no plans for a second term.We’ve got no plans for a second term.
(Possibly that is a more general statement than the treasurer intended.)(Possibly that is a more general statement than the treasurer intended.)
The ABC has Labor backbencher Michael Danby. Given Bill Shorten’s in-principle support for Tony Abbott’s principle about stripping dual citizens of their Australian nationality, Danby is being asked about phase two – sole nationals.The ABC has Labor backbencher Michael Danby. Given Bill Shorten’s in-principle support for Tony Abbott’s principle about stripping dual citizens of their Australian nationality, Danby is being asked about phase two – sole nationals.
Michael Danby:Michael Danby:
Well, that’s a further bridge, isn’t it? That is really a difficult one.Well, that’s a further bridge, isn’t it? That is really a difficult one.
Many thresholds to get through on this issue. I’m in danger of driving everyone batty with this repetition but there’s no detail yet on phase one. Then the prime minister has signalled he’d like to push through to sole nationals. Will Labor go along for the ride on that one too?Many thresholds to get through on this issue. I’m in danger of driving everyone batty with this repetition but there’s no detail yet on phase one. Then the prime minister has signalled he’d like to push through to sole nationals. Will Labor go along for the ride on that one too?
You might prefer this visual, shadow immigration spokesman Richard Marles, on being the virtue of being sensible when it comes to national security. This was the warm up act for Bill Shorten today.You might prefer this visual, shadow immigration spokesman Richard Marles, on being the virtue of being sensible when it comes to national security. This was the warm up act for Bill Shorten today.
Always my favourite visual. Politicians looking at things. Jamie Briggs and WestConnex suit Tony Shepherd, looking at maps of the M4.Always my favourite visual. Politicians looking at things. Jamie Briggs and WestConnex suit Tony Shepherd, looking at maps of the M4.
With WestConnex Chairman Tony Shepherd announcing preferred design for the M4 East tunnels to run under Parramatta Rd pic.twitter.com/uoIuSZpFlxWith WestConnex Chairman Tony Shepherd announcing preferred design for the M4 East tunnels to run under Parramatta Rd pic.twitter.com/uoIuSZpFlx
Labor’s Ed Husic is on Sky News, is emphasising that Labor’s position on dual citizenship is indicative only.Labor’s Ed Husic is on Sky News, is emphasising that Labor’s position on dual citizenship is indicative only.
Until we get it, I don’t think we can sign up to something we haven’t seen.Until we get it, I don’t think we can sign up to something we haven’t seen.
What the father of the House looked like when he wasn’t the father of the House.What the father of the House looked like when he wasn’t the father of the House.
#tbt My first day on the job with a spring in my step #auspol #nofears pic.twitter.com/xZQr9d9cAH#tbt My first day on the job with a spring in my step #auspol #nofears pic.twitter.com/xZQr9d9cAH
Given the day is still jogging, bless it, let’s take stock with the summary.Given the day is still jogging, bless it, let’s take stock with the summary.
As we say in our business, more to come.As we say in our business, more to come.
My colleague, Greg Jericho.My colleague, Greg Jericho.
At the risk of going all Krusty the Clown, I’ll just note that the quarterly growth figures hide a lot of concerns with our economy. There is nothing very terrific about an annual growth of 2.3%.At the risk of going all Krusty the Clown, I’ll just note that the quarterly growth figures hide a lot of concerns with our economy. There is nothing very terrific about an annual growth of 2.3%.
He’s produced the analytical goods on the GDP. Have a read.He’s produced the analytical goods on the GDP. Have a read.
Shalailah MedhoraShalailah Medhora
Infrastructure minister Jamie Briggs has launched the Property Council’s development assessment report card for 2015 (Murph flagged this event on the blog earlier this morning in a post just after 9).Infrastructure minister Jamie Briggs has launched the Property Council’s development assessment report card for 2015 (Murph flagged this event on the blog earlier this morning in a post just after 9).
The report is a three-yearly review of how the states and territories are faring in the housing affordability space. Wih the housing bubble a big issue this week, Briggs echoed the sentiments of prime minister Tony Abbott when it comes to rising house prices, saying:The report is a three-yearly review of how the states and territories are faring in the housing affordability space. Wih the housing bubble a big issue this week, Briggs echoed the sentiments of prime minister Tony Abbott when it comes to rising house prices, saying:
As a country we need to remember that these are good problems. These are very good problems. Rising house prices is a good problem. Growth in our cities is a good problem.As a country we need to remember that these are good problems. These are very good problems. Rising house prices is a good problem. Growth in our cities is a good problem.
Unfortunately we couldn’t ask him to expand further on how the federal government would tackle the affordability issue, as he left the launch without taking any questions.Unfortunately we couldn’t ask him to expand further on how the federal government would tackle the affordability issue, as he left the launch without taking any questions.
Have a look at this glorious view from the lake this morning as we take stock of those duelling press conferences.Have a look at this glorious view from the lake this morning as we take stock of those duelling press conferences.
Truly stunning sunrise this morning. #Canberra #Visitcanberra pic.twitter.com/3e0pMptXfHTruly stunning sunrise this morning. #Canberra #Visitcanberra pic.twitter.com/3e0pMptXfH
We can cover this in two bullet points.We can cover this in two bullet points.
I’d say something about raising a knife but I won’t because that would be gratuitous.I’d say something about raising a knife but I won’t because that would be gratuitous.
Tony Abbott, looking at (small business) things in Belco. Remember the great industrial fridge tours of 2013?Tony Abbott, looking at (small business) things in Belco. Remember the great industrial fridge tours of 2013?
Hope no-one just wanted a lamb shank.Hope no-one just wanted a lamb shank.
Feels a bit election campaigny. #auspol pic.twitter.com/OE95BYvtqtFeels a bit election campaigny. #auspol pic.twitter.com/OE95BYvtqt
Photographers, including the hard working Mr Bowers, didn’t fail to notice the helpful prop in the background at Kippax. Way harsh.Photographers, including the hard working Mr Bowers, didn’t fail to notice the helpful prop in the background at Kippax. Way harsh.
On the issue of briefings on citizenship revocations, Bill Shorten told reporters out in Pearce he’d requested one on May 24.On the issue of briefings on citizenship revocations, Bill Shorten told reporters out in Pearce he’d requested one on May 24.
Q: Do you think (citizenship revocation) is going to be a deterrent to people going to fight for Islamic State if the threat of death is what these people are willing to take on?Q: Do you think (citizenship revocation) is going to be a deterrent to people going to fight for Islamic State if the threat of death is what these people are willing to take on?
Tony Abbott:Tony Abbott:
It’s not the only thing we are proposing to do. As you know, we’ve spent about $1.3bn to improve the resources available to our police and security agencies. We’ve boosted the laws so our police and security agencies have better powers. We have a powerful military force in the Middle East right now which is very effectively mounting air strikes against the Daesh death cult and we have got military trainers working the Iraqi Army and a small special forces component advising and assisting the Iraqi special forces.It’s not the only thing we are proposing to do. As you know, we’ve spent about $1.3bn to improve the resources available to our police and security agencies. We’ve boosted the laws so our police and security agencies have better powers. We have a powerful military force in the Middle East right now which is very effectively mounting air strikes against the Daesh death cult and we have got military trainers working the Iraqi Army and a small special forces component advising and assisting the Iraqi special forces.
We are acting across a wide range of areas to try to ensure first that Australians don’t go. Second, that Australians who come back can be dealt with. Third, that we deal with this international menace at its source in northern Iraq.We are acting across a wide range of areas to try to ensure first that Australians don’t go. Second, that Australians who come back can be dealt with. Third, that we deal with this international menace at its source in northern Iraq.
More Abbott.More Abbott.
Q: Why won’t you give Labor the briefing on your proposed changes to citizenship laws it has asked for when you are the one that has been pressuring the opposition to reveal its stance?Q: Why won’t you give Labor the briefing on your proposed changes to citizenship laws it has asked for when you are the one that has been pressuring the opposition to reveal its stance?
The prime minister:The prime minister:
At the moment we have a principle. That’s what’s at issue at the moment, a principle. In a week or so’s time, the legislation will be introduced into the parliament and once the legislation has been introduced into the parliament, of course the Labor party will get a briefing and the Labor party knows that they will get a briefing as soon as the legislation is introduced into the parliament.At the moment we have a principle. That’s what’s at issue at the moment, a principle. In a week or so’s time, the legislation will be introduced into the parliament and once the legislation has been introduced into the parliament, of course the Labor party will get a briefing and the Labor party knows that they will get a briefing as soon as the legislation is introduced into the parliament.
But the principle is absolutely clear. The government will strip citizenship from terrorists who are dual nationals. My question to the Labor party is: Where do you stand on that principle? We know where we stand.But the principle is absolutely clear. The government will strip citizenship from terrorists who are dual nationals. My question to the Labor party is: Where do you stand on that principle? We know where we stand.
We think that anyone who raises a gun or a knife to an Australian because of who we are has utterly forfeited any right to be considered one of us. I think that’s a very clear principle.We think that anyone who raises a gun or a knife to an Australian because of who we are has utterly forfeited any right to be considered one of us. I think that’s a very clear principle.
The government supports it and we will put it into practice with this legislation. Where does the Labor party stand?The government supports it and we will put it into practice with this legislation. Where does the Labor party stand?
(I’ve made my view clear this morning on that language I’ve bolded above for reference. I’ll repeat my view again: the us/them division is unhelpful to the broader objective we all support. Call me conservative and risk averse. I don’t mind.)(I’ve made my view clear this morning on that language I’ve bolded above for reference. I’ll repeat my view again: the us/them division is unhelpful to the broader objective we all support. Call me conservative and risk averse. I don’t mind.)
The prime minister has bobbed up in Belco.The prime minister has bobbed up in Belco.
Onya Chris Uhlmann. The ABC journalist asks the prime minister what is Australia’s position on the South China Sea. Folks with me all week will remember Greg Sheridan’s story saying we might get a bit more assertive in the region.Onya Chris Uhlmann. The ABC journalist asks the prime minister what is Australia’s position on the South China Sea. Folks with me all week will remember Greg Sheridan’s story saying we might get a bit more assertive in the region.
Q: Can I take you to the South China Sea? What do you think of the way the Chinese are behaving and would you send an Australian ship into the waters to test Australia’s right for free navigation?Q: Can I take you to the South China Sea? What do you think of the way the Chinese are behaving and would you send an Australian ship into the waters to test Australia’s right for free navigation?
The prime minister plays a very dead bat, but there’s a criticism here of China, and an assertion of Australia’s rights about freedom of navigation. I’ll bold the relevant careful inflections.The prime minister plays a very dead bat, but there’s a criticism here of China, and an assertion of Australia’s rights about freedom of navigation. I’ll bold the relevant careful inflections.
Chris, I should begin by saying China is a very good friend of Australia and it’s a friendship which is getting stronger all the time. Of course, China’s not our only friend and we have other friends say round the South China Sea and we have friends and allies that have a very strong interest in the South China Sea.Chris, I should begin by saying China is a very good friend of Australia and it’s a friendship which is getting stronger all the time. Of course, China’s not our only friend and we have other friends say round the South China Sea and we have friends and allies that have a very strong interest in the South China Sea.
We have always had a very clear position on the South China Sea. We take no sides in the many territorial disputes in that region. But we deplore any unilateral alteration of the status quo.We have always had a very clear position on the South China Sea. We take no sides in the many territorial disputes in that region. But we deplore any unilateral alteration of the status quo.
We believe that disputes should be settled peacefully in accordance with international law and we do what we can to uphold freedom of navigation on the sea and in the air. That’s our position. It’s long been our position and it will continue to be our position.We believe that disputes should be settled peacefully in accordance with international law and we do what we can to uphold freedom of navigation on the sea and in the air. That’s our position. It’s long been our position and it will continue to be our position.
Bill Shorten has arrived at Melrose High School.Bill Shorten has arrived at Melrose High School.
Evidently attempting to hold out for a concrete proposal on citizenship revocations is causing Labor some heartburn out in Ray Hadley land.Evidently attempting to hold out for a concrete proposal on citizenship revocations is causing Labor some heartburn out in Ray Hadley land.
Shorten says now Labor is up for a sensible discussion of dual citizens.Shorten says now Labor is up for a sensible discussion of dual citizens.
Labor is up for a sensible discussion about whether dual citizens, people who claim Australian citizenship and all the marvellous benefits that comes with it, then work for ISIL or other terrorist groups, we think it is a sensible development in principle that these dual citizens should not be able to claim any longer the marvellous gift of Australian citizenship when they’re prepared to be part of terrorist organisations.Labor is up for a sensible discussion about whether dual citizens, people who claim Australian citizenship and all the marvellous benefits that comes with it, then work for ISIL or other terrorist groups, we think it is a sensible development in principle that these dual citizens should not be able to claim any longer the marvellous gift of Australian citizenship when they’re prepared to be part of terrorist organisations.
We also expect the government to bring forward the legislation. There has been a lot of noise and debate about national security matters. We see deeply disturbing leaks within the cabinet of Australia going to matters of national security. I think it’s important the government stops being disunited, provides the legislation to the national parliament and, again, I reiterate, Labor is constructive, consistent and bipartisan on national security.We also expect the government to bring forward the legislation. There has been a lot of noise and debate about national security matters. We see deeply disturbing leaks within the cabinet of Australia going to matters of national security. I think it’s important the government stops being disunited, provides the legislation to the national parliament and, again, I reiterate, Labor is constructive, consistent and bipartisan on national security.
Let me be clear: as a homeowner I’m with the prime minister about preserving the value of my biggest investment. I hope very dearly that I won’t lose a shed load on the house, given it’s all I’ve got apart from my ten year old Camry and my loved ones and my health and a slightly mad cat.Let me be clear: as a homeowner I’m with the prime minister about preserving the value of my biggest investment. I hope very dearly that I won’t lose a shed load on the house, given it’s all I’ve got apart from my ten year old Camry and my loved ones and my health and a slightly mad cat.
But I can say that, because I’m not the prime minister. I’ve just some woman in the street, who is now resigned to the inevitability that I will have to use the asset I have to help my kids secure their asset.But I can say that, because I’m not the prime minister. I’ve just some woman in the street, who is now resigned to the inevitability that I will have to use the asset I have to help my kids secure their asset.
Now, worth pointing this out.Now, worth pointing this out.
You’ll remember the stunt Labor pulled yesterday to bring on the vote about the government’s small business budget measures. A stunt, for sure, but a crafty one. It sent the government into a modest tail spin given Tony Abbott had declared the measure urgent shortly before voting against immediate consideration of it.You’ll remember the stunt Labor pulled yesterday to bring on the vote about the government’s small business budget measures. A stunt, for sure, but a crafty one. It sent the government into a modest tail spin given Tony Abbott had declared the measure urgent shortly before voting against immediate consideration of it.
The government, having been caught on the hop, declared that its MPs deserved the right to speak (and besides, the Senate wasn’t sitting anyway). Then it promptly sped up the debate by advising their remaining speakers had to stick to five minute contributions.The government, having been caught on the hop, declared that its MPs deserved the right to speak (and besides, the Senate wasn’t sitting anyway). Then it promptly sped up the debate by advising their remaining speakers had to stick to five minute contributions.
Folk downstairs tells me when debate finished last night, 16 Coalition members had still not spoken: McCormack, Jones, Buchholz, (Karen) Andrews, Goodenough, Christensen, Pitt, Fiona Scott, Chester, Hawke, Ramsey, Hartsuyker, Gambaro, Fletcher, Whitely, Griggs.Folk downstairs tells me when debate finished last night, 16 Coalition members had still not spoken: McCormack, Jones, Buchholz, (Karen) Andrews, Goodenough, Christensen, Pitt, Fiona Scott, Chester, Hawke, Ramsey, Hartsuyker, Gambaro, Fletcher, Whitely, Griggs.
Then this morning, the measure came on quickly for a vote. So lots of Coalition folks didn’t get their say afterall.Then this morning, the measure came on quickly for a vote. So lots of Coalition folks didn’t get their say afterall.
Confused? Don’t worry. Just politics.Confused? Don’t worry. Just politics.
Bloomberg is reporting the OECD, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development in Paris, says Australia should hold fire on interest-rate cuts to avoid further inflaming property prices that are at risk of “a sharp correction.”Bloomberg is reporting the OECD, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development in Paris, says Australia should hold fire on interest-rate cuts to avoid further inflaming property prices that are at risk of “a sharp correction.”
The Australian Financial Review is carrying the Bloomberg report.The Australian Financial Review is carrying the Bloomberg report.
So now the OECD joins the treasury secretary, John Fraser, the Asic chief, Greg Medcraft, and the head of the financial systems inquiry, David Murray, ruminating in different ways about the consequences of the housing bubble this week – and the RBA saying it will work with regulators on this question.So now the OECD joins the treasury secretary, John Fraser, the Asic chief, Greg Medcraft, and the head of the financial systems inquiry, David Murray, ruminating in different ways about the consequences of the housing bubble this week – and the RBA saying it will work with regulators on this question.
The treasurer said this morning he did wonder how his children will afford a house.The treasurer said this morning he did wonder how his children will afford a house.
Also interesting in The Australian this morning, an op ed from Greg Craven, the vice chancellor of Australian Catholic University, about whether the government can actually strip Australians of their citizenship. Actually in the specific sense – can it make the change without breaching the constitution?Also interesting in The Australian this morning, an op ed from Greg Craven, the vice chancellor of Australian Catholic University, about whether the government can actually strip Australians of their citizenship. Actually in the specific sense – can it make the change without breaching the constitution?
Craven:Craven:
The overall dumbness of this idea is proclaimed by the fact cabinet apparently considered whether dual or sole Australian citizenship could be removed by a minister rather than a court. This is wrong, not because it would enrage hemp sandal weavers or Christine Milne but because it violates fundamental conservative principle. Citizenship is the most basic right of our constitution. Indeed, every other right — speech, protest, religion — flows ultimately from our citizenship of the Commonwealth of Australia. So every conservative nerve screams this right can be removed only by a court of law.The overall dumbness of this idea is proclaimed by the fact cabinet apparently considered whether dual or sole Australian citizenship could be removed by a minister rather than a court. This is wrong, not because it would enrage hemp sandal weavers or Christine Milne but because it violates fundamental conservative principle. Citizenship is the most basic right of our constitution. Indeed, every other right — speech, protest, religion — flows ultimately from our citizenship of the Commonwealth of Australia. So every conservative nerve screams this right can be removed only by a court of law.
Imagine, for example, proposals that houses be confiscated by ministerial order, people detained, property seized or personal movement restricted. How, then, deletion of citizenship by the stroke of a ministerial pen? The good news is even if this proposal ever did hit the statute books, it would last as long as a Melbourne warm spell.Imagine, for example, proposals that houses be confiscated by ministerial order, people detained, property seized or personal movement restricted. How, then, deletion of citizenship by the stroke of a ministerial pen? The good news is even if this proposal ever did hit the statute books, it would last as long as a Melbourne warm spell.
It would be irredeemably unconstitutional.It would be irredeemably unconstitutional.
Five paws to the Liberal MP Craig Laundy, both for the intent of his homily (I’m a substance man, not a spin man) and for the hugely credible pretence that he did not know there was a staffer with a camera waiting right behind the door.Five paws to the Liberal MP Craig Laundy, both for the intent of his homily (I’m a substance man, not a spin man) and for the hugely credible pretence that he did not know there was a staffer with a camera waiting right behind the door.
I’m with you, I want the substance, and there it is.I’m with you, I want the substance, and there it is.
Our main protagonists are scattering in all directions. Tony Abbott is off to Belconnen. Bill Shorten is off south past Woden. And shortly the infrastructure minister Jamie Briggs will be at an event marking the launch of a new report into housing affordability – which could be interesting given the various positions about housing bubbles offered by various clowns this week. Sorry, the treasury secretary and the head of Asic and David Murray weren’t the clowns were they – those were economic commentators talking the economy down.Our main protagonists are scattering in all directions. Tony Abbott is off to Belconnen. Bill Shorten is off south past Woden. And shortly the infrastructure minister Jamie Briggs will be at an event marking the launch of a new report into housing affordability – which could be interesting given the various positions about housing bubbles offered by various clowns this week. Sorry, the treasury secretary and the head of Asic and David Murray weren’t the clowns were they – those were economic commentators talking the economy down.
Me bad.Me bad.
Further to the citizenship debate, The Australian has a development worth noting. We know that backbenchers wrote to Tony Abbott pressing him to move against alleged jihadists whether they were sole citizens or dual nationals. Cabinet drew the line (for now) at dual citizens.Further to the citizenship debate, The Australian has a development worth noting. We know that backbenchers wrote to Tony Abbott pressing him to move against alleged jihadists whether they were sole citizens or dual nationals. Cabinet drew the line (for now) at dual citizens.
The prime minister has written back apparently urging the backbench to continue that effort.The prime minister has written back apparently urging the backbench to continue that effort.
Tony Abbott:Tony Abbott:
The support of the party room for a strong national security policy is really important.The support of the party room for a strong national security policy is really important.
David Crowe and Phil Hudson tell us the word “really” is underlined.David Crowe and Phil Hudson tell us the word “really” is underlined.
Really, important.Really, important.
My colleague Lenore Taylor has an update on the saga of Bjorn Lomborg and the $4m he got from the government to host a centre at UWA. The university didn’t proceed with the deal. We learned in estimates yesterday that the money had been set aside in the 2014 budget – more than a year ago. We also learned that universities approaching the Department of Education about the $4m still available for hosting Lomborg’s consensus centre should talk to Lomborg himself.My colleague Lenore Taylor has an update on the saga of Bjorn Lomborg and the $4m he got from the government to host a centre at UWA. The university didn’t proceed with the deal. We learned in estimates yesterday that the money had been set aside in the 2014 budget – more than a year ago. We also learned that universities approaching the Department of Education about the $4m still available for hosting Lomborg’s consensus centre should talk to Lomborg himself.
On Sky News, small business minister Bruce Billson has joined the industry minister Ian Macfarlane in advising whomever it was who leaked out of the cabinet meeting on citizenship last week to get out of Dodge.On Sky News, small business minister Bruce Billson has joined the industry minister Ian Macfarlane in advising whomever it was who leaked out of the cabinet meeting on citizenship last week to get out of Dodge.
Billson:Billson:
They should quit.They should quit.
Shadow treasurer, Chris Bowen, on the existence or otherwise of clown persons.Shadow treasurer, Chris Bowen, on the existence or otherwise of clown persons.
The treasurer says that people who criticise these figures or who are pessimistic about these figures are clowns. Well if I was Joe Hockey I wouldn’t be using the word clown very often. Most people associate the words clown and Joe Hockey in a way that he wouldn’t appreciate.The treasurer says that people who criticise these figures or who are pessimistic about these figures are clowns. Well if I was Joe Hockey I wouldn’t be using the word clown very often. Most people associate the words clown and Joe Hockey in a way that he wouldn’t appreciate.
He needs to be very clear with the Australian people about what his economic and budget plan is.He needs to be very clear with the Australian people about what his economic and budget plan is.
Shalailah MedhoraShalailah Medhora
Joe Hockey was mobbed by journalists after leaving the ABC studios this morning. Despite our valiant attempts, he would not be drawn on who exactly are the “fools” and “clowns” talking down the Australian economy. (The treasurer invoked the clown description yesterday during his press conference about the national acounts.)Joe Hockey was mobbed by journalists after leaving the ABC studios this morning. Despite our valiant attempts, he would not be drawn on who exactly are the “fools” and “clowns” talking down the Australian economy. (The treasurer invoked the clown description yesterday during his press conference about the national acounts.)
Hockey:Hockey:
I think you can just have a look around. Have a look at the front pages of newspaper articles, of website articles yesterday even. The most dangerous language you can use at the moment is about dark clouds on the horizon for the economy or recession, and there have been a number of commentators using that language - totally foolish because in the last three months we’ve had the fastest growing economy in the G7 and one of the fastest growing economies in the world.I think you can just have a look around. Have a look at the front pages of newspaper articles, of website articles yesterday even. The most dangerous language you can use at the moment is about dark clouds on the horizon for the economy or recession, and there have been a number of commentators using that language - totally foolish because in the last three months we’ve had the fastest growing economy in the G7 and one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
In through the nose. Out through the mouth. More lovely early work from Mr Bowers. Protest setting up down the front. I saw this through the pre-dawn gloom this morning. Wondered what it was. Shivery little cut-outs.In through the nose. Out through the mouth. More lovely early work from Mr Bowers. Protest setting up down the front. I saw this through the pre-dawn gloom this morning. Wondered what it was. Shivery little cut-outs.
Breathe lady blogger. Breathe. Look at the lovely picture Mr Bowers sent you of the moon over our place of daily business.Breathe lady blogger. Breathe. Look at the lovely picture Mr Bowers sent you of the moon over our place of daily business.
During his interview on the ABC, the treasurer was also asked for his view on the citizenship proposal that has been causing the government all kinds of grief this week. Host Fran Kelly wants to know whether Joe Hockey would support people who are not dual nationals being stripped of their citizenship – the possibility flagged in the government’s discussion paper – the one communications minister Malcolm Turnbull characterised yesterday as a bridge too far.During his interview on the ABC, the treasurer was also asked for his view on the citizenship proposal that has been causing the government all kinds of grief this week. Host Fran Kelly wants to know whether Joe Hockey would support people who are not dual nationals being stripped of their citizenship – the possibility flagged in the government’s discussion paper – the one communications minister Malcolm Turnbull characterised yesterday as a bridge too far.
Hockey is determined not to give a view on this point. He sticks to the proposal that has been approved by the cabinet, stripping dual nationals of their citizenship if they take up arms against Australia. He’s asked whether a person should lose their citizenship at the stroke of a minister’s pen or whether this should be a decision for the courts. Hockey says there will be judicial review. Which doesn’t exactly address Fran’s point.Hockey is determined not to give a view on this point. He sticks to the proposal that has been approved by the cabinet, stripping dual nationals of their citizenship if they take up arms against Australia. He’s asked whether a person should lose their citizenship at the stroke of a minister’s pen or whether this should be a decision for the courts. Hockey says there will be judicial review. Which doesn’t exactly address Fran’s point.
Another senior Coalition voice – Arthur Sinodinos – said late yesterday if people are suspected of terrorist activity, take that to court.Another senior Coalition voice – Arthur Sinodinos – said late yesterday if people are suspected of terrorist activity, take that to court.
As I’ve already flagged, Hockey has this morning deployed a variant of the language bandied about by the prime minister for much of the week – if people take up a knife or a gun against us then they don’t deserve to be citizens.As I’ve already flagged, Hockey has this morning deployed a variant of the language bandied about by the prime minister for much of the week – if people take up a knife or a gun against us then they don’t deserve to be citizens.
Right about now, I’ve had enough of this rhetoric.Right about now, I’ve had enough of this rhetoric.
I’ve had enough because this phrase sounds very impressive as a grab on talkback radio but it doesn’t actually mean much specific at all – except to foster a very clear sense of ‘us and them.’I’ve had enough because this phrase sounds very impressive as a grab on talkback radio but it doesn’t actually mean much specific at all – except to foster a very clear sense of ‘us and them.’
Language like that divides countries and communities. Keeping Australians safe from the very real risks of terrorism and violent extremism requires communities to be brought together, for law enforcement to have clear lines of sight and communications into communities where radicalisation is a problem.Language like that divides countries and communities. Keeping Australians safe from the very real risks of terrorism and violent extremism requires communities to be brought together, for law enforcement to have clear lines of sight and communications into communities where radicalisation is a problem.
It doesn’t require grandstanding and posturing, it requires goodwill, patience, persistence and vigilance. It requires concrete proposals to consider, not empty fighting words.It doesn’t require grandstanding and posturing, it requires goodwill, patience, persistence and vigilance. It requires concrete proposals to consider, not empty fighting words.
What did Malcolm Turnbull say yesterday?What did Malcolm Turnbull say yesterday?
National security is not a bravado exercise?National security is not a bravado exercise?
Good morning politics tragics and welcome to Thursday. It’s minus six in Canberra, clear skies, slim chance of sanity.Good morning politics tragics and welcome to Thursday. It’s minus six in Canberra, clear skies, slim chance of sanity.
The day is beginning in orderly fashion, a polite sort of jog.The day is beginning in orderly fashion, a polite sort of jog.
RT @WJCLibrary: Happy #NationalRunningDay! Here's a photo of President Clinton out for a little jog in April 1993. pic.twitter.com/2NWx0hBNoxRT @WJCLibrary: Happy #NationalRunningDay! Here's a photo of President Clinton out for a little jog in April 1993. pic.twitter.com/2NWx0hBNox
Sorry. Perhaps that was a bit early.Sorry. Perhaps that was a bit early.
The main story in the political news cycle is the state of the economy after the release of national accounts data yesterday. The government expressed satisfaction with 2.3% annual growth, Treasurer Joe Hockey pointed out this was the fastest growth rate in the G7. Anyone who thought otherwise was a clown. But while positive economic growth is always welcome, annual growth of 2.3% is below trend. Perhaps the aftermath of the GFC means we all need to revisit what constitutes “trend” growth.The main story in the political news cycle is the state of the economy after the release of national accounts data yesterday. The government expressed satisfaction with 2.3% annual growth, Treasurer Joe Hockey pointed out this was the fastest growth rate in the G7. Anyone who thought otherwise was a clown. But while positive economic growth is always welcome, annual growth of 2.3% is below trend. Perhaps the aftermath of the GFC means we all need to revisit what constitutes “trend” growth.
Labor says the GDP number is based on growth in exports rather than any specific government strategy. The government says positive growth is all part of the plan, and the stimulatory elements of the recent budget, particularly small business tax breaks, will help put a spring in the economy’s step. This morning, the treasurer would like us to look at the trend rather than the quarterly result.Labor says the GDP number is based on growth in exports rather than any specific government strategy. The government says positive growth is all part of the plan, and the stimulatory elements of the recent budget, particularly small business tax breaks, will help put a spring in the economy’s step. This morning, the treasurer would like us to look at the trend rather than the quarterly result.
Joe Hockey:Joe Hockey:
When people talk about dark clouds or recession, they are just wrong. Dead wrong.When people talk about dark clouds or recession, they are just wrong. Dead wrong.
They are made to look like complete fools.They are made to look like complete fools.
Hockey is asked on the ABC about falling income growth. He says living standards are not falling. The size of the economy is increasing. Asset prices are rising. The treasurer says everyone’s wages are not falling.Hockey is asked on the ABC about falling income growth. He says living standards are not falling. The size of the economy is increasing. Asset prices are rising. The treasurer says everyone’s wages are not falling.
The treasurer is asked about the housing bubble identified by his departmental head earlier this week – the one the prime minister has been backing away from in an effort to buy himself a cheap free kick against Bill Shorten.The treasurer is asked about the housing bubble identified by his departmental head earlier this week – the one the prime minister has been backing away from in an effort to buy himself a cheap free kick against Bill Shorten.
Hockey, creeping out very carefully to state the bleeding obvious:Hockey, creeping out very carefully to state the bleeding obvious:
Well, I like many others, if you have a home if you’re already there, even with a mortgage, you wonder how your children are going to get a home …Well, I like many others, if you have a home if you’re already there, even with a mortgage, you wonder how your children are going to get a home …
Now, look, the best way to respond to elevated house prices is to increase supply. What we’ve seen is a massive increase in the amount of housing construction in Australia in the last year, up 18%, up 18%. Which is 30,000 more dwellings that commenced construction last year than the year before.Now, look, the best way to respond to elevated house prices is to increase supply. What we’ve seen is a massive increase in the amount of housing construction in Australia in the last year, up 18%, up 18%. Which is 30,000 more dwellings that commenced construction last year than the year before.
That is the best way to respond to elevated prices…That is the best way to respond to elevated prices…
Hockey also says different things are happening in different markets. You’ve got to be very careful in any policy response.Hockey also says different things are happening in different markets. You’ve got to be very careful in any policy response.
Don’t you people be careful. Get loud. The comments thread is open for business, and you can talk to us on the Twits @murpharoo and @mpbowersDon’t you people be careful. Get loud. The comments thread is open for business, and you can talk to us on the Twits @murpharoo and @mpbowers