Daily Bulletin

The Times Real Estate

.

  • Written by Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Senator Rex Patrick is currently challenging the secrecy around Scott Morrison’s national cabinet. He’s brought legal action – the outcome is pending – to attempt to have the minutes of this body, which includes federal, state and territory leaders, made public. The government claims the documents are protected by an exemption for cabinet documents in the freedom of information act, while Patrick claims national cabinet lacks some of the essential features that would afford it that cover.

Patrick’s also pressing for improvements in the freedom information law, which has become increasingly obstacle-ridden, to allow applicants more rights. It’s perhaps no wonder former senator Nick Xenophon, for whom Patrick once worked, labelled him “Inspector Rex”.

On a very different front, as a former submariner Patrick has been highly critical of the government’s Future Submarine Program, which has contracted a French company to build 12 submarines for the Royal Australian Navy. Patrick says the company is taking too long, and charging too much, to make submarines which may fail to achieve the necessary sovereign capability.

In this podcast, Patrick says Scott Morrison should take the opportunity during his coming meeting with French President Macron to issue an ultimatum that changes must be made.

“You know, despite the good relationship we may have with France, this is a matter of national security, and it’s also a matter of a huge amount of public expenditure. And the prime minister must put the Australian public before that relationship. And I think it would be wise for him to be just very frank and honest with the French president.”

Listen on Apple Podcasts Politics with Michelle Grattan: Rex Patrick on Freedom of Information and Australia's submarines

Stitcher Listen on TuneIn

Listen on RadioPublic Politics with Michelle Grattan: Rex Patrick on Freedom of Information and Australia's submarines

A List of Ways to Die, Lee Rosevere, from Free Music Archive.

Authors: Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Read more https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-rex-patrick-on-freedom-of-information-and-australias-submarines-162520

Business News

Maintaining Garden Aesthetics Year-Round: Seasonal Gardening for Killara Businesses

Seasonal gardening gives Killara businesses the chance to have beautiful outside areas all year round. Landscaping strategies are changed during the different seasons to help plants grow well in cha...

Daily Bulletin - avatar Daily Bulletin

Site Survey: The Foundation of Successful Construction Projects

A site survey (or land survey) is an essential early step in establishing the requirements for the successful execution and planning of construction and land development. It is a large-scale process...

Daily Bulletin - avatar Daily Bulletin

Why Brite Storage Tanks Are a Game-Changer for Your Beverage Production

Whether you’re brewing a refreshing pale ale or perfecting your cider, every step shapes the final product. That’s where brite storage tanks truly shine. Crafting beverages Australians love takes mor...

Daily Bulletin - avatar Daily Bulletin

LayBy Deals