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Labor calls for Dyson Heydon to resign as trade union commissioner – politics live Labor calls for Dyson Heydon to resign as trade union commissioner – politics live
(35 minutes later)
12.09pm AEST03:09
Shalailah Medhora
Today’s news is not all bad for the government. Labor has lost its Federal Court case against the attorney general, George Brandis, over the so-called divorce tax. It had contended that Brandis unlawfully introduced regulation to increase court fees like divorce applications shortly after similar regulation had been overturned by the Senate. Legislation states that regulation can not be introduced within six months of similar regulation being shot down. The government argued that the later regulation, which came into play on July 13, was substantially different from earlier regulation, because it saw fees rise by an additional $5. Divorce applications rose by more than 40% as a result of the regulation, which was disallowed for a second time on Tuesday.
12.05pm AEST03:05
Just by the by, the NSW Bar Association has been advertising the Heydon event since April.
11.48am AEST02:4811.48am AEST02:48
The controversy spills out into one of the parliamentary courtyards, where Labor’s Mark Dreyfus and Brendan O’Connor are addressing reporters. Dreyfus says the government needs to terminate the royal commission, and Heydon needs to stand down.The controversy spills out into one of the parliamentary courtyards, where Labor’s Mark Dreyfus and Brendan O’Connor are addressing reporters. Dreyfus says the government needs to terminate the royal commission, and Heydon needs to stand down.
Mark Dreyfus:Mark Dreyfus:
Any fair minded Australian would see this royal commissioner has demonstrated the appearance of bias.Any fair minded Australian would see this royal commissioner has demonstrated the appearance of bias.
O’Connor says Heydon’s preparedness to attend a party fundraiser shows this is Tony Abbott’s royal commission.O’Connor says Heydon’s preparedness to attend a party fundraiser shows this is Tony Abbott’s royal commission.
(Heydon) must disqualify himself. The prime minister has to intervene and ensure this commissioner is no longer presiding over this proceeding.(Heydon) must disqualify himself. The prime minister has to intervene and ensure this commissioner is no longer presiding over this proceeding.
Dreyfus says this is a call in the first instance for Heydon to step down. He signals federal court action might follow in the event Heydon chooses not to act.Dreyfus says this is a call in the first instance for Heydon to step down. He signals federal court action might follow in the event Heydon chooses not to act.
11.40am AEST02:4011.40am AEST02:40
Let's recap quickly: Deyson Heydon's tough morning at the office Let's recap quickly: Dyson Heydon's tough morning at the office
In the event you are just tuning in or you can’t quite follow all the gear changes in the past thirty minutes, let’s take stock of the travails of Deyson Heydon: In the event you are just tuning in or you can’t quite follow all the gear changes in the past thirty minutes, let’s take stock of the travails of Dyson Heydon:
Updated at 12.12pm AEST
11.31am AEST02:3111.31am AEST02:31
Manager of opposition business, Tony Burke, declares the debate must happen now. The government cannot be allowed to cover up the royal commissioner participating in Liberal fundraising.Manager of opposition business, Tony Burke, declares the debate must happen now. The government cannot be allowed to cover up the royal commissioner participating in Liberal fundraising.
Labor MP Rob Mitchell, sitting in the Speaker’s chair, says the debate can’t happen now.Labor MP Rob Mitchell, sitting in the Speaker’s chair, says the debate can’t happen now.
The chamber returns to normal business.The chamber returns to normal business.
There will be more on this issue. The safest bet in politics today.There will be more on this issue. The safest bet in politics today.
11.28am AEST02:2811.28am AEST02:28
Back to the House.Back to the House.
Manager of government business, Christopher Pyne.Manager of government business, Christopher Pyne.
I’m sure the opposition wants to fulminate about this matter, but they can do it at the right time.I’m sure the opposition wants to fulminate about this matter, but they can do it at the right time.
11.25am AEST02:2511.25am AEST02:25
Heydon withdraws from the fundraiserHeydon withdraws from the fundraiser
A statement just now from the royal commission.A statement just now from the royal commission.
The Commissioner Dyson Heydon will not be delivering the Sir Garfield Barwick address. As early as 9.23 this morning (and prior to any media enquiry being received) he advised the organisers that “If there was any possibility that the event could be described as a Liberal Party event he will be unable to give the address, at least whilst he is in the positon of Royal Commissioner.”The Commissioner Dyson Heydon will not be delivering the Sir Garfield Barwick address. As early as 9.23 this morning (and prior to any media enquiry being received) he advised the organisers that “If there was any possibility that the event could be described as a Liberal Party event he will be unable to give the address, at least whilst he is in the positon of Royal Commissioner.”
11.22am AEST02:2211.22am AEST02:22
The government is moving to gag Labor in the House.The government is moving to gag Labor in the House.
11.22am AEST02:2211.22am AEST02:22
Manager of opposition business, Tony Burke:Manager of opposition business, Tony Burke:
He (Heydon) is conflicted, he is biased, the royal commission is a farce.He (Heydon) is conflicted, he is biased, the royal commission is a farce.
11.20am AEST02:2011.20am AEST02:20
Labor moves to have Deyson Heydon removed from the royal commissionLabor moves to have Deyson Heydon removed from the royal commission
Down in the House, Labor is moving that Deyson Heydon be removed from the royal commission into trade union corruption.Down in the House, Labor is moving that Deyson Heydon be removed from the royal commission into trade union corruption.
A motion is underway now.A motion is underway now.
11.19am AEST02:1911.19am AEST02:19
According to folks with the prime minister in Braddon, on the matter of Dyson Heydon, he won’t run speculative commentary on the issue.According to folks with the prime minister in Braddon, on the matter of Dyson Heydon, he won’t run speculative commentary on the issue.
The event is not something Tony Abbott is aware of.The event is not something Tony Abbott is aware of.
I’ll get the direct quote when I can.I’ll get the direct quote when I can.
11.14am AEST02:1411.14am AEST02:14
Don't play silly buggers, TonyDon't play silly buggers, Tony
Liberal backbencher and same-sex marriage advocate Warren Entsch isn’t pulling punches. He has warned the prime minister “and his allies” not to “play silly buggers” with procedural tactics to delay or defeat a “people’s vote”, saying it would cost Coalition seats at the next election.Liberal backbencher and same-sex marriage advocate Warren Entsch isn’t pulling punches. He has warned the prime minister “and his allies” not to “play silly buggers” with procedural tactics to delay or defeat a “people’s vote”, saying it would cost Coalition seats at the next election.
Lenore Taylor and Shalailah MedhoraLenore Taylor and Shalailah Medhora
Entsch is a co-sponsor of the multi-party bill that will be introduced next week, but it has no chance of success after the Coalition’s decision to support the current definition of marriage until the next election.Entsch is a co-sponsor of the multi-party bill that will be introduced next week, but it has no chance of success after the Coalition’s decision to support the current definition of marriage until the next election.
He said the Coalition party room had not decided what kind of “people’s vote” there should be and it was “disappointing” to see the social services minister, Scott Morrison, speaking out in favour of a referendum.He said the Coalition party room had not decided what kind of “people’s vote” there should be and it was “disappointing” to see the social services minister, Scott Morrison, speaking out in favour of a referendum.
“We need broad acceptance for what we are doing, it shouldn’t be just something that the prime minister and his closest allies think is the clever way to go.”“We need broad acceptance for what we are doing, it shouldn’t be just something that the prime minister and his closest allies think is the clever way to go.”
He said if the government did try to delay or influence a “people’s vote” he would “go ballistic” and the Coalition would lose seats at the next federal election.He said if the government did try to delay or influence a “people’s vote” he would “go ballistic” and the Coalition would lose seats at the next federal election.
“The party room committed to putting this to the people, not that we would try to find some way to make sure there was no outcome. We certainly did not lock into the idea of having a referendum,” Entsch told Guardian Australia.“The party room committed to putting this to the people, not that we would try to find some way to make sure there was no outcome. We certainly did not lock into the idea of having a referendum,” Entsch told Guardian Australia.
11.11am AEST02:1111.11am AEST02:11
Back now – I know I will have missed a bunch of questions and I’ll come back.Back now – I know I will have missed a bunch of questions and I’ll come back.
The prime minister is being asked whether he prefers a plebiscite or a referendum to settle same sex marriage.The prime minister is being asked whether he prefers a plebiscite or a referendum to settle same sex marriage.
Abbott won’t specify now.Abbott won’t specify now.
The form it might take is something we’ll have more to say about between now and polling day.The form it might take is something we’ll have more to say about between now and polling day.
11.03am AEST02:0311.03am AEST02:03
We’ve lost the live link to that press conference unfortunately. Hopefully it will be restored – in any case I’ll catch us up when we can.We’ve lost the live link to that press conference unfortunately. Hopefully it will be restored – in any case I’ll catch us up when we can.
10.57am AEST01:5710.57am AEST01:57
Tony Abbott:Tony Abbott:
Ice is the worst drug scourge Australia has faced.Ice is the worst drug scourge Australia has faced.
He says he’s pursuing tougher penalties for ice addicts who act out violently against health workers.He says he’s pursuing tougher penalties for ice addicts who act out violently against health workers.
10.53am AEST01:5310.53am AEST01:53
The prime minister speaks to reporters at the Australian Crime CommissionThe prime minister speaks to reporters at the Australian Crime Commission
Tony Abbott’s press conference is underway now. Can’t see flags. This outing appears to be about ice, and the police response to international syndicates.Tony Abbott’s press conference is underway now. Can’t see flags. This outing appears to be about ice, and the police response to international syndicates.
10.45am AEST01:4510.45am AEST01:45
Updated at 11.00am AESTUpdated at 11.00am AEST
10.44am AEST01:4410.44am AEST01:44
Pretty bizarre that Heydon would think his attendance at a Liberal party event was in any way acceptable when he’s in the middle of a royal commission process.Pretty bizarre that Heydon would think his attendance at a Liberal party event was in any way acceptable when he’s in the middle of a royal commission process.
10.37am AEST01:3710.37am AEST01:37
Ah, here it is now.Ah, here it is now.
Fairfax Media.Fairfax Media.
The former judge charged with overseeing the royal commission into union corruption has been billed as guest speaker at a Liberal Party fundraiser. The revelation could discredit the royal commission, which Labor has decried as a political witch hunt from the outset. Justice Dyson Heydon is listed as they keynote speaker at the Sir Garfield Barwick Address on August 21 at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel in Sydney.The former judge charged with overseeing the royal commission into union corruption has been billed as guest speaker at a Liberal Party fundraiser. The revelation could discredit the royal commission, which Labor has decried as a political witch hunt from the outset. Justice Dyson Heydon is listed as they keynote speaker at the Sir Garfield Barwick Address on August 21 at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel in Sydney.
10.34am AEST01:3410.34am AEST01:34
Shorten is asked whether he’ll support Nick Xenophon’s bill on entitlements. (He’ll talk to him). Then he’s asked whether it is appropriate for the royal commissioner into trade union corruption, Deyson Heydon, to be speaking at Liberal party fundraisers.Shorten is asked whether he’ll support Nick Xenophon’s bill on entitlements. (He’ll talk to him). Then he’s asked whether it is appropriate for the royal commissioner into trade union corruption, Deyson Heydon, to be speaking at Liberal party fundraisers.
Shorten clearly hasn’t seen any report of this. Neither have I. I’ll chase it up, or perhaps blog readers could direct me to it if they’ve seen it somewhere?Shorten clearly hasn’t seen any report of this. Neither have I. I’ll chase it up, or perhaps blog readers could direct me to it if they’ve seen it somewhere?
But he says if that’s true, if the royal commissioner inquiring into the government’s political opponents is attending Liberal party fundraisers – then that is incredibly serious, incredibly concerning.But he says if that’s true, if the royal commissioner inquiring into the government’s political opponents is attending Liberal party fundraisers – then that is incredibly serious, incredibly concerning.
10.30am AEST01:3010.30am AEST01:30
Shorten is asked about Scott Morrison’s support for resolving same sex marriage via a referendum.Shorten is asked about Scott Morrison’s support for resolving same sex marriage via a referendum.
There are a range of people in the ranks of the right of the Liberal party who will say and do anything to stop marriage equality.There are a range of people in the ranks of the right of the Liberal party who will say and do anything to stop marriage equality.
Shorten says politicians are elected to make decisions.Shorten says politicians are elected to make decisions.
It’s an abdication of responsibility by Mr Abbott and a delaying tactic and I don’t trust him.It’s an abdication of responsibility by Mr Abbott and a delaying tactic and I don’t trust him.
I do think Mr Abbott is being tricky.I do think Mr Abbott is being tricky.
10.26am AEST01:2610.26am AEST01:26
Shorten says he'll get a briefing on Syria next weekShorten says he'll get a briefing on Syria next week
Questions start with Syria.Questions start with Syria.
Will Labor shift its position on no bombing in Syria?Will Labor shift its position on no bombing in Syria?
Bill Shorten says national security is too important for thought bubbles.Bill Shorten says national security is too important for thought bubbles.
I’ve contacted the prime minister and we’ll get a briefing next week.I’ve contacted the prime minister and we’ll get a briefing next week.
He says he understands there has been no formal request from the US as yet.He says he understands there has been no formal request from the US as yet.
10.24am AEST01:2410.24am AEST01:24
Labor’s environment spokesman Mark Butler.Labor’s environment spokesman Mark Butler.
Thank you Bill, I want to thank FRV which has responsibility for the solar farm for welcoming us here today. As Bill has said this was one of the first movers in building utility-scale solar farms in Australia and there are many more being built.Thank you Bill, I want to thank FRV which has responsibility for the solar farm for welcoming us here today. As Bill has said this was one of the first movers in building utility-scale solar farms in Australia and there are many more being built.
FRV is building in Moree a solar farm which is more than twice the size of this that will have solar panels put on steel frames, metal frames, that are made in Australia by a company that used to be part of the automotive industry.FRV is building in Moree a solar farm which is more than twice the size of this that will have solar panels put on steel frames, metal frames, that are made in Australia by a company that used to be part of the automotive industry.
(The future is now.)(The future is now.)
10.20am AEST01:2010.20am AEST01:20
What you see behind me is the future of energy in this country.What you see behind me is the future of energy in this country.
That’s the Labor leader Bill Shorten at the Royalla solar farm. Given it’s already there, I’d say it’s the present of energy in this country.That’s the Labor leader Bill Shorten at the Royalla solar farm. Given it’s already there, I’d say it’s the present of energy in this country.
10.18am AEST01:1810.18am AEST01:18
Labor’s Joe Ludwig is offering substantially the same reasoning as the Liberal David Fawcett in the national Icac debate.Labor’s Joe Ludwig is offering substantially the same reasoning as the Liberal David Fawcett in the national Icac debate.
We already have a range of integrity measures at the Commonwealth level, which in my view are adequate to combat corruption at the federal level.We already have a range of integrity measures at the Commonwealth level, which in my view are adequate to combat corruption at the federal level.
10.11am AEST01:1110.11am AEST01:11
If you think I’m being too harsh on the prime minister concerning same sex marriage (people’s vote my @#$*) – the never cynical Michelle Grattan, political editor of The Conversation, offers her readers much the same view, but with less implied expletives.If you think I’m being too harsh on the prime minister concerning same sex marriage (people’s vote my @#$*) – the never cynical Michelle Grattan, political editor of The Conversation, offers her readers much the same view, but with less implied expletives.
Michelle Grattan:Michelle Grattan:
Let’s put aside the spin. This is more like a promise of false gold. Tricky, if you want to be harsh. Abbott’s intention has been called out by his sister Christine Forster and by Warren Entsch, the Liberal mover of the cross-party private member’s bill for same-sex marriage that will come in next week and then be buried by Abbott.Let’s put aside the spin. This is more like a promise of false gold. Tricky, if you want to be harsh. Abbott’s intention has been called out by his sister Christine Forster and by Warren Entsch, the Liberal mover of the cross-party private member’s bill for same-sex marriage that will come in next week and then be buried by Abbott.
Both Entsch and Forster urge that if there is to be a popular vote it should be with the coming election. Needless to say, Abbott has no intention of having it then, even though that would be the logical timing and it would be no more of a distraction than the issue will be as things stand. If held then, he would have limited chance of defeating it.Both Entsch and Forster urge that if there is to be a popular vote it should be with the coming election. Needless to say, Abbott has no intention of having it then, even though that would be the logical timing and it would be no more of a distraction than the issue will be as things stand. If held then, he would have limited chance of defeating it.
People will be very trusting if they buy the Abbott line as being a fair and square attempt to gauge community opinion.People will be very trusting if they buy the Abbott line as being a fair and square attempt to gauge community opinion.
Abbott no doubt is thinking back to the John Howard playbook for the 1999 republic referendum. Howard pledged a vote, said he would be “withdrawn” during the campaign, but used his clout to help ensure the defeat of the referendum. Abbott would be unlikely to bother with the “withdrawn” bit, and the government position would, on present indications, be for the status quo, with individual Liberals able to take whatever position they liked.Abbott no doubt is thinking back to the John Howard playbook for the 1999 republic referendum. Howard pledged a vote, said he would be “withdrawn” during the campaign, but used his clout to help ensure the defeat of the referendum. Abbott would be unlikely to bother with the “withdrawn” bit, and the government position would, on present indications, be for the status quo, with individual Liberals able to take whatever position they liked.
Based on his consistent record, if Abbott wins the election and goes ahead with a vote, he will do everything he can to stymie a pro-same-sex marriage outcome.Based on his consistent record, if Abbott wins the election and goes ahead with a vote, he will do everything he can to stymie a pro-same-sex marriage outcome.
10.05am AEST01:0510.05am AEST01:05
The Labor leader Bill Shorten is out at Royalla inspecting a solar farm.The Labor leader Bill Shorten is out at Royalla inspecting a solar farm.
Updated at 10.46am AESTUpdated at 10.46am AEST
9.57am AEST00:579.57am AEST00:57
Liberal David Fawcett is speaking in the Icac debate now. I think the thrust of Fawcett’s reasoning is we already have an anti-corruption strategy at the federal level.Liberal David Fawcett is speaking in the Icac debate now. I think the thrust of Fawcett’s reasoning is we already have an anti-corruption strategy at the federal level.
The recent ALP national conference also rejected a push from delegates in NSW to create a federal Icac. My colleague Gabrielle Chan reported the rejection just after our three day odyssey in Melbourne.The recent ALP national conference also rejected a push from delegates in NSW to create a federal Icac. My colleague Gabrielle Chan reported the rejection just after our three day odyssey in Melbourne.
The Labor frontbencher and former ALP national secretary Gary Gray rejected a push for an Icac-style national integrity commission at the party’s conference because he says existing federal bodies are working. Tony Sheldon, national secretary of the Transport Workers Union and a former party vice-president, had included a motion for a federal independent commission against corruption at last weekend’s national ALP conference but it was taken down at the last minute. It failed to get internal parliamentary party support, including from Gray, Labor’s shadow special minister of state. Asked by Guardian Australia why he did not support the concept of a federal Icac, Gray said the ALP national conference had never done so.The Labor frontbencher and former ALP national secretary Gary Gray rejected a push for an Icac-style national integrity commission at the party’s conference because he says existing federal bodies are working. Tony Sheldon, national secretary of the Transport Workers Union and a former party vice-president, had included a motion for a federal independent commission against corruption at last weekend’s national ALP conference but it was taken down at the last minute. It failed to get internal parliamentary party support, including from Gray, Labor’s shadow special minister of state. Asked by Guardian Australia why he did not support the concept of a federal Icac, Gray said the ALP national conference had never done so.
9.43am AEST00:439.43am AEST00:43
Down in the red room, the Greens have brought forward a bill to establish a national Icac. This bill was first introduced in 2013.Down in the red room, the Greens have brought forward a bill to establish a national Icac. This bill was first introduced in 2013.
Greens leader Richard Di Natale is speaking now.Greens leader Richard Di Natale is speaking now.
The explanatory memorandum says National Integrity Commission Bill 2013 establishes a National Integrity Commission, bringing together and co-locating the independent oversight functions for:The explanatory memorandum says National Integrity Commission Bill 2013 establishes a National Integrity Commission, bringing together and co-locating the independent oversight functions for:
9.37am AEST00:379.37am AEST00:37
Dutton says same sex marriage should be decided by a referendumDutton says same sex marriage should be decided by a referendum
On 2GB right now, the immigration minister Peter Dutton is backing a referendum (as opposed to a plebiscite) to decide the same sex marriage issue.On 2GB right now, the immigration minister Peter Dutton is backing a referendum (as opposed to a plebiscite) to decide the same sex marriage issue.
I’m in the camp of supporting a referendum, because I think there’s a significant social change being proposed here.I’m in the camp of supporting a referendum, because I think there’s a significant social change being proposed here.
Updated at 9.38am AESTUpdated at 9.38am AEST
9.34am AEST00:349.34am AEST00:34
The environment minister Greg Hunt has been in our corridor this morning attempting to sell the government’s new post-2020 emissions targets.The environment minister Greg Hunt has been in our corridor this morning attempting to sell the government’s new post-2020 emissions targets.
Radio National host Fran Kelly asked Hunt about estimates reported by my colleague Lenore Taylor of the costs associated with meeting the target via the government’s preferred policy mechanism, which is to make taxpayers pick up the tab for emissions reductions rather than businesses.Radio National host Fran Kelly asked Hunt about estimates reported by my colleague Lenore Taylor of the costs associated with meeting the target via the government’s preferred policy mechanism, which is to make taxpayers pick up the tab for emissions reductions rather than businesses.
The Ai Group said this morning that achieving the new target using only the emissions reduction fund would cost between $100bn and $250bn.The Ai Group said this morning that achieving the new target using only the emissions reduction fund would cost between $100bn and $250bn.
Hunt’s view about that?Hunt’s view about that?
Ridiculous. Wrong.Ridiculous. Wrong.
(From memory the government’s number is $2.4bn. Hunt said yesterday the government would miss the target rather than spend more money to meet it.)(From memory the government’s number is $2.4bn. Hunt said yesterday the government would miss the target rather than spend more money to meet it.)
9.23am AEST00:239.23am AEST00:23
The prime minister is off shortly to the Australian Crime Commission. Not sure about today’s flag rating. Stay tuned.The prime minister is off shortly to the Australian Crime Commission. Not sure about today’s flag rating. Stay tuned.
9.19am AEST00:199.19am AEST00:19
Just back to same sex marriage, rather than take my word on what the High Court found in relation to marriage, have a look at the judgment. It’s quite short.Just back to same sex marriage, rather than take my word on what the High Court found in relation to marriage, have a look at the judgment. It’s quite short.
These reasons will show that the Commonwealth and the territory were right to submit that s 51(xxi) gives the federal parliament power to pass a law providing for same sex marriage.These reasons will show that the Commonwealth and the territory were right to submit that s 51(xxi) gives the federal parliament power to pass a law providing for same sex marriage.
9.11am AEST00:119.11am AEST00:11
One story I haven’t stretched to yet is a data hack story in Fairfax Media.One story I haven’t stretched to yet is a data hack story in Fairfax Media.
Islamic State has hacked the personal information of Australian Defence Force employees and their relatives, a Victorian MP, and several public servants, and urged home-grown terrorists to attack them, in a chilling online breach.Islamic State has hacked the personal information of Australian Defence Force employees and their relatives, a Victorian MP, and several public servants, and urged home-grown terrorists to attack them, in a chilling online breach.
Michael Keenan on Sky this morning confirmed a breach had occurred but would not given any more details.Michael Keenan on Sky this morning confirmed a breach had occurred but would not given any more details.
8.59am AEST23:598.59am AEST23:59
Exclusive: Australia’s youngest ever MP vows to cross the floor on marriage equality http://t.co/xjcQ1i5xVS pic.twitter.com/sXJHhnVfpaExclusive: Australia’s youngest ever MP vows to cross the floor on marriage equality http://t.co/xjcQ1i5xVS pic.twitter.com/sXJHhnVfpa
Liberal MP Wyatt Roy has, unsurprisingly given his positive view on the subject, indicated he’ll cross the floor to support marriage equality.Liberal MP Wyatt Roy has, unsurprisingly given his positive view on the subject, indicated he’ll cross the floor to support marriage equality.
Pity he won’t get the opportunity if we believe the prime minister’s comments yesterday. Abbott has all but said the cross party bill spearheaded by Warren Entsch won’t come to a vote. We could see a Senate vote though as some point on this issue, given the government doesn’t control the play in the red room. Perhaps Wyatt could burst on in. Stranger in the house!Pity he won’t get the opportunity if we believe the prime minister’s comments yesterday. Abbott has all but said the cross party bill spearheaded by Warren Entsch won’t come to a vote. We could see a Senate vote though as some point on this issue, given the government doesn’t control the play in the red room. Perhaps Wyatt could burst on in. Stranger in the house!
Updated at 9.56am AESTUpdated at 9.56am AEST
8.53am AEST23:538.53am AEST23:53
Shalailah MedhoraShalailah Medhora
Keenan on Sky also stated the obvious on consultations with the United States.Keenan on Sky also stated the obvious on consultations with the United States.
We’re constantly talking to our allies about the best way of destroying IS. Those conversations are ongoing. We’re determined to do all we can to destroy IS. Whilst they exist, they will be a threat to Australia. Obviously, we are doing that in conjunction with our allies.We’re constantly talking to our allies about the best way of destroying IS. Those conversations are ongoing. We’re determined to do all we can to destroy IS. Whilst they exist, they will be a threat to Australia. Obviously, we are doing that in conjunction with our allies.
8.43am AEST23:438.43am AEST23:43
While I’ve been deconstructing people’s votes the justice minister, Michael Keenan, has been on Sky News thanking Dan Tehan for his useful contribution to the debate over Islamic State and Syria. Keenan notes, however, that any decision on that will be made at the highest levels of government.While I’ve been deconstructing people’s votes the justice minister, Michael Keenan, has been on Sky News thanking Dan Tehan for his useful contribution to the debate over Islamic State and Syria. Keenan notes, however, that any decision on that will be made at the highest levels of government.
Updated at 9.31am AESTUpdated at 9.31am AEST
8.37am AEST23:378.37am AEST23:37
People's vote my @#$*People's vote my @#$*
Invoking Syria is, of course, one way to change the marriage equality conversation, but default cynicism like this creates heat rather than light. Politics is rarely as orderly is it appears. What look like grand schemes are quite often accidents or cock-ups. And in any case, people will go on taking about marriage equality. Let’s get up to speed on that score.Invoking Syria is, of course, one way to change the marriage equality conversation, but default cynicism like this creates heat rather than light. Politics is rarely as orderly is it appears. What look like grand schemes are quite often accidents or cock-ups. And in any case, people will go on taking about marriage equality. Let’s get up to speed on that score.
Folks hanging off the debate over the past couple of days will know that the government attempted yesterday to shrug off its internal schism by talking grandly about a people’s vote to settle the question of whether or not Australia should legalise same sex marriage. Doesn’t that sound marvellous? A people’s vote.Folks hanging off the debate over the past couple of days will know that the government attempted yesterday to shrug off its internal schism by talking grandly about a people’s vote to settle the question of whether or not Australia should legalise same sex marriage. Doesn’t that sound marvellous? A people’s vote.
Unless you consider the following. The prime minister will be chief cheerleader for the “no” case. The prime minister doesn’t actually want a people’s vote at all, particularly if it is a positive vote. He just wants to buy himself a bit of time to navigate past the fight between conservatives and progressives within his own ranks.Unless you consider the following. The prime minister will be chief cheerleader for the “no” case. The prime minister doesn’t actually want a people’s vote at all, particularly if it is a positive vote. He just wants to buy himself a bit of time to navigate past the fight between conservatives and progressives within his own ranks.
This is not a cynical judgment – I’m just adding up the sum of available facts. To understand the truth of this statement just think about the issue in these terms: if the Australian people vote in favour of marriage equality, will people such as Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison and Eric Abetz and Cory Bernardi just say, ‘Ah well, fair cop. Let’s just let the nice progressivism in.’ Of course not. Conservatives are not looking for a path to get this done; they are just looking to hold off the change for as long as possible.This is not a cynical judgment – I’m just adding up the sum of available facts. To understand the truth of this statement just think about the issue in these terms: if the Australian people vote in favour of marriage equality, will people such as Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison and Eric Abetz and Cory Bernardi just say, ‘Ah well, fair cop. Let’s just let the nice progressivism in.’ Of course not. Conservatives are not looking for a path to get this done; they are just looking to hold off the change for as long as possible.
Gratifying in that context to see the true colours starting to show.Gratifying in that context to see the true colours starting to show.
It’s not clear yet of course what this people’s vote is. The communications minister, Malcolm Turnbull, said yesterday he hoped the cabinet might get to determine that. (Good luck, Malcolm.) I suspect that depends whether or not Dan Tehan has a view. (Sorry, too much, I know.)It’s not clear yet of course what this people’s vote is. The communications minister, Malcolm Turnbull, said yesterday he hoped the cabinet might get to determine that. (Good luck, Malcolm.) I suspect that depends whether or not Dan Tehan has a view. (Sorry, too much, I know.)
Last night on the ABC’s 7.30 Scott Morrison said he thought it should be a constitutional referendum rather than a yes/no plebiscite. Of course a constitutional referendum has a much higher threshold for success than a plebiscite. It’s quite easy in this country to get a no vote in a referendum.Last night on the ABC’s 7.30 Scott Morrison said he thought it should be a constitutional referendum rather than a yes/no plebiscite. Of course a constitutional referendum has a much higher threshold for success than a plebiscite. It’s quite easy in this country to get a no vote in a referendum.
Also it’s completely unnecessary. The high court made it clear in its recent decision about the ACT same-sex marriage law that the federal parliament has the power to legislate to define marriage.Also it’s completely unnecessary. The high court made it clear in its recent decision about the ACT same-sex marriage law that the federal parliament has the power to legislate to define marriage.
Ask no higher authority than Tony Abbott, who said this in May.Ask no higher authority than Tony Abbott, who said this in May.
Q: Prime minister, [same-sex marriage] has come before the parliament a number of times though. Isn’t it time now to just give it to the public and make it a referendum?Q: Prime minister, [same-sex marriage] has come before the parliament a number of times though. Isn’t it time now to just give it to the public and make it a referendum?
Tony Abbott:Tony Abbott:
Well, that’s an interesting point. Referendums are held in this country where there is a proposal to change the constitution. I don’t think anyone’s suggesting that the constitution needs to be changed in this respect. Under the constitution, questions of marriage are the preserve of the commonwealth parliament; other matters of regulation of society are normally a matter for the state parliaments. Plainly, this is a matter that could quite properly come before the commonwealth parliament if members of parliament wanted it to be raised.Well, that’s an interesting point. Referendums are held in this country where there is a proposal to change the constitution. I don’t think anyone’s suggesting that the constitution needs to be changed in this respect. Under the constitution, questions of marriage are the preserve of the commonwealth parliament; other matters of regulation of society are normally a matter for the state parliaments. Plainly, this is a matter that could quite properly come before the commonwealth parliament if members of parliament wanted it to be raised.
Updated at 9.31am AESTUpdated at 9.31am AEST
8.14am AEST23:148.14am AEST23:14
Why would we send Australian personnel into the most dangerous place on earth: PlibersekWhy would we send Australian personnel into the most dangerous place on earth: Plibersek
I’ll get to marriage very shortly, but right now I’m caught between Tehan being interviewed on Sky and Plibersek being interviewed on the ABC about Syria.I’ll get to marriage very shortly, but right now I’m caught between Tehan being interviewed on Sky and Plibersek being interviewed on the ABC about Syria.
Tehan has already told the ABC this is his own view – the prime minister hasn’t sent him out to make the case for Australia’s involvement in Syria.Tehan has already told the ABC this is his own view – the prime minister hasn’t sent him out to make the case for Australia’s involvement in Syria.
Tanya Plibersek, meanwhile:Tanya Plibersek, meanwhile:
If the prime minister is interested in Australia now being involved in Syria, he should first declare what is the legal basis for Australian involvement.If the prime minister is interested in Australia now being involved in Syria, he should first declare what is the legal basis for Australian involvement.
This is no doubt there is a humanitarian disaster in Syria, 11.5m people are internally or externally displaced, but without a clear legal basis for Australian involvement and without a clear plan ... what does victory in Syria look like ... ?This is no doubt there is a humanitarian disaster in Syria, 11.5m people are internally or externally displaced, but without a clear legal basis for Australian involvement and without a clear plan ... what does victory in Syria look like ... ?
I think it would be very dangerous to send Australian personnel into one of the most dangerous places on Earth right now.I think it would be very dangerous to send Australian personnel into one of the most dangerous places on Earth right now.
If the prime minister wants us to change our position, he should have the courage to go into the parliament and make that argument rather than sending a backbencher out to float an idea and see how people respond.If the prime minister wants us to change our position, he should have the courage to go into the parliament and make that argument rather than sending a backbencher out to float an idea and see how people respond.
Updated at 8.39am AESTUpdated at 8.39am AEST
8.00am AEST23:008.00am AEST23:00
Good morningGood morning
Good morning politics tragics, and welcome to the final day of this parliamentary sitting week. Now riddle me this: does the Abbott cabinet not run and articulate security policy any more?Good morning politics tragics, and welcome to the final day of this parliamentary sitting week. Now riddle me this: does the Abbott cabinet not run and articulate security policy any more?
I ask the question because this morning we read the chairman of parliament’s joint intelligence and security committee, Dan Tehan, thinks we should be bombing Islamic State targets in Syria.I ask the question because this morning we read the chairman of parliament’s joint intelligence and security committee, Dan Tehan, thinks we should be bombing Islamic State targets in Syria.
Dan Tehan, in a column in the Herald Sun.Dan Tehan, in a column in the Herald Sun.
The time has come for Australia to join the military coalition seeking to destroy Daesh [Isis] in Syria. We are acting in Iraq against Daesh, with our Hornets launching air strikes on a regular basis. We should be doing the same in Syria.The time has come for Australia to join the military coalition seeking to destroy Daesh [Isis] in Syria. We are acting in Iraq against Daesh, with our Hornets launching air strikes on a regular basis. We should be doing the same in Syria.
Tehan is a good bloke, and he’s entirely within his rights to express an opinion on this score given he runs the security committee and takes a very close interest in these issues. However, there is some history here. When the prime minister ran into cabinet-level trouble a couple of months back on its citizenship revocation proposal (pests like Malcolm Turnbull and Christopher Pyne and Barnaby Joyce thought it might be good if the law was constitutional) Tehan and other backbenchers on the security committee materialised publicly to make Abbott’s case for him.Tehan is a good bloke, and he’s entirely within his rights to express an opinion on this score given he runs the security committee and takes a very close interest in these issues. However, there is some history here. When the prime minister ran into cabinet-level trouble a couple of months back on its citizenship revocation proposal (pests like Malcolm Turnbull and Christopher Pyne and Barnaby Joyce thought it might be good if the law was constitutional) Tehan and other backbenchers on the security committee materialised publicly to make Abbott’s case for him.
In fact this bunch wanted the government to go further on citizenship: strip citizenship from people who were sole citizens. So I’m looking at Tehan’s contribution this morning with the sum of that recent history in mind.In fact this bunch wanted the government to go further on citizenship: strip citizenship from people who were sole citizens. So I’m looking at Tehan’s contribution this morning with the sum of that recent history in mind.
Perhaps there has already been a discussion within the government and Tehan merely has been deputised to reflect the government’s new view (as opposed, for some reason, to the defence minister or the prime minister). Or perhaps this is a bit of authorised boundary riding in order to test the current bipartisanship around the Iraq commitment. Labor supports military action in Iraq, but the opposition thus far has drawn the line at crossing the border into Syria.Perhaps there has already been a discussion within the government and Tehan merely has been deputised to reflect the government’s new view (as opposed, for some reason, to the defence minister or the prime minister). Or perhaps this is a bit of authorised boundary riding in order to test the current bipartisanship around the Iraq commitment. Labor supports military action in Iraq, but the opposition thus far has drawn the line at crossing the border into Syria.
Ah yes, here is Tanya Plibersek now at the doors of parliament, talking to reporters. Has the government’s policy on the deployment to the Middle East changed, she wonders, and if so, would the government be so kind as to offer a briefing? There are serious questions about the legality of incursions into Syria. What, exactly, is going on here?Ah yes, here is Tanya Plibersek now at the doors of parliament, talking to reporters. Has the government’s policy on the deployment to the Middle East changed, she wonders, and if so, would the government be so kind as to offer a briefing? There are serious questions about the legality of incursions into Syria. What, exactly, is going on here?
Tehan’s intervention is no small or academic thing given the delicacy of political support for the current deployment, and I note there’s another story in the Hun’s sister paper, the Telegraph, this morning indicating the United States has asked for Australia’s help in the conflict. All this foregrounding is about as subtle as a meat axe – and we all know how much the prime minister desires a point of difference between the government and Labor on a security issue. We’ve seen that dynamic play out in bursts of pure politics (never mind coherence or fairness or technicalities or the long game) for the best part of 12 months.Tehan’s intervention is no small or academic thing given the delicacy of political support for the current deployment, and I note there’s another story in the Hun’s sister paper, the Telegraph, this morning indicating the United States has asked for Australia’s help in the conflict. All this foregrounding is about as subtle as a meat axe – and we all know how much the prime minister desires a point of difference between the government and Labor on a security issue. We’ve seen that dynamic play out in bursts of pure politics (never mind coherence or fairness or technicalities or the long game) for the best part of 12 months.
The only question in my mind is: why is the backbench leading the charge?The only question in my mind is: why is the backbench leading the charge?
Anyway we’ll pursue the threads of this story through the course of the day. Loads of other issues still burbling in the building. I’ll address where we are with same-sex marriage this morning in the next post.Anyway we’ll pursue the threads of this story through the course of the day. Loads of other issues still burbling in the building. I’ll address where we are with same-sex marriage this morning in the next post.
Let’s open the conversation for today. The thread is waiting for your business. You can also reach Mikearoo and me on the twits @murpharoo and @mpbowersLet’s open the conversation for today. The thread is waiting for your business. You can also reach Mikearoo and me on the twits @murpharoo and @mpbowers
Grab your flat whites. Here comes Thursday.Grab your flat whites. Here comes Thursday.
Updated at 8.37am AESTUpdated at 8.37am AEST