MARK DREYFUS QC MP
SHADOW ATTORNEY-GENERAL
SHADOW MINISTER FOR NATIONAL SECURITY
MEMBER FOR ISAACS
PORTER BACKTRACKS ON INTEGRITY COMMISSION
After months of prevarication from the Coalition, Attorney-General Christian Porter has written to Labor and formally refused the offer of bipartisan support for the creation of a National Integrity Commission.
Despite a bipartisan select committee report to the contrary, Mr Porter has determined there is no persuasive evidence that there are gaps in the current system for tackling corruption at the federal level.
Labor does not agree. We believe the current system despite many agencies doing important work is fragmented and further coordination is worth pursuing.
That's why Bill Shorten announced in January, Labor will legislate for a National Integrity Commission, with all the powers of a standing Royal Commission, would be legislated within the first 12 months of a Labor government.
Mr Porter used to say that he was not closed-minded to the proposal so what changed?
It is time for both parties to acknowledge that we have to do better, if we are to regain the trust of those we represent.
Labor is prepared to take the important steps towards that goal. Its disappointing that the government is not.
WEDNESDAY, 23 MAY 2018
