Government & Labor Close Ranks to Block Citizenship Inquiry

Once again the Federal Government has closed ranks with the Labor party to block a proposal by One Nation’s leader, Senator Pauline Hanson, to establish an independent review of the eligibility of all senators by the end of the week.

Senator Hanson called on the Senate to work together to end the ongoing uncertainty around the eligibility of a number of sitting Senators and establish an independent review in the interests of restoring the public’s confidence in the Parliament.

Delivering a speech on the floor of the Senate, Senator Hanson called out both sides of the chamber for closing ranks and blocking an independent inquiry.

“The public have lost confidence in this parliament and its politicians,” Senator Hanson said.

“I have seen both sides of this parliament close ranks when it comes to proving their eligibility.”

“The people have no faith or trust in the politicians of this country and it’s no wonder.”

Senator Hanson stated that when it came to establishing an independent review, “It is up to the Government and it is up to the opposition leader.”

Senator Hanson called the Government and Labor out over their continued moves to close ranks and prevent an independent inquiry from taking place, labelling their actions “disgusting.”

Senator Hanson then pointed out that the Coalition and the Government also closed ranks when One Nation called for a full inquiry into the eligibility of all Senators under section 44 of the Constitution 20 years ago.

Senator Hanson’s motion to suspend standing orders was supported by the Green as well as other crossbenchers, but voted against by the Government, Labor and the Xenophon bloc.