Daily Bulletin

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

Two Nationals crossed the floor and four others, including three cabinet ministers, failed to vote on a motion from Liberal Democrat David Leyonhjelm to disallow the import ban on the Adler lever-action shotgun.

Senators John Williams from NSW and Victorian Bridget McKenzie voted with Leyonhjelm and One Nation against the ban.

Nationals deputy leader Fiona Nash, their Senate leader, Nigel Scullion, and Matt Canavan were missing, as was backbencher Barry O'Sullivan. This meant no Nationals voted against the motion, which was defeated 45-7.

Nationals sources explained the absence of ministers by saying the vote was a “mickey” – that is, a division in which the major parties vote against a minor party (and so the numbers are not close). But Liberal ministers George Brandis, Arthur Sinodinos, Scott Ryan and Mitch Fifield voted.

Leyonhjelm has accused the government of breaking a deal he had for the ban on the importation to be lifted earlier this year. A sunset clause was inserted when Tony Abbott was prime minister – although Abbott denied personal knowledge of it – but the ban was maintained by the Turnbull government.

image Gun enthusiast senator Bridget McKenzie taking aim. Facebook: Senator Bridget McKenzie

The floor crossing came as the Nationals reel from the byelection in the NSW of Orange, which saw a devastating wipeout for the state Nationals. On Monday the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party secured the seat by 50 votes. The Nationals suffered a massive 34% swing on primary votes.

The Herald Sun reported that in the two-hour meeting of the federal parliamentary party, there were concerns about the direction of the Turnbull government, the rising threat from One Nation, and the amount of time some Liberals were spending talking about “fringe issues” such as Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act.

The Nationals were divided over the issue of foreign workers – Queensland National George Christensen has publicly criticised the 457 scheme but some Nationals argued regional Australia depended on these workers, according to the report.

Authors: Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Read more http://theconversation.com/nationals-buck-government-line-on-adler-69178

Business News

Top Tips for Cost-effective Storefront Signage

The retail industry is highly competitive and if you are in the process of setting up a retail store, you have come to the right place, as we offer a few tips to help you create a stunning storefront...

Daily Bulletin - avatar Daily Bulletin

How Freight Forwarding Simplifies Global Trade Operations

Global trade operations are becoming increasingly complex due to international regulations, customs procedures, and the sheer scale of global logistics. For businesses looking to expand internation...

Daily Bulletin - avatar Daily Bulletin

How Car Accident Lawyers Protect Your Rights?

In the aftermath of a car accident, the steps you take can significantly impact your financial and legal future. This is where car accident lawyers step into the frame, equipped with expertise to sa...

Daily Bulletin - avatar Daily Bulletin