Committee procedures and political intimidation
Senator Heffernan thanks Labour colleagues for abstaining and condemns the Government’s alleged use of Standing Orders to punish dissent, supporting the proposed amendment.
Yes. I thank my comrade, Senator Kelly, for his principled stand.
Comment on this
I also thank other Labour Party comrades who abstained from the vote.
Loyalty and friendship in politics can be very fickle at times and as genuine friendship is rare, I thank them for it. Is the underhand and deceitful way in which it took place right? Is it also right that Standing Orders of this House can be set aside in such a fashion by the Government to enable it to stick the boot into those who disagree with it on points of principle? I support the proposed amendment to the Order of Business. This move shows a blatant disregard for the functions of democracy and this House, about which serious questions must be answered.