Independent MP Zali Steggall has challenged a government decision that will see cruise staff cut in the new parliament.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has moved to reduce the staffing of banks crossed by MP or senator from four to one, which critics have called an attack on democracy.
Steggall, who retained Warringah’s seat north of Sydney in the recent federal election, said the impact would be “huge”.
Zali Steggall retained the Warringah seat this year. (new)
“We consider every law, we consult stakeholders, we listen to communities,” he said.
“We propose amendments and all this is done from the benefit of having advisers to be able to do this research.
“Therefore, it will basically not be possible to consider every piece of legislation.”
Albanese suggested that cross-deputies use the central library staff of the parliamentary library for research purposes.
Independent “Teal” candidates will become a force in Parliament despite the Labor majority. (Joe Armao)
However, Steggall said the role they could play was limited, as they could not “advise” MPs or senators.
“Basically, the prime minister suggests that we do not have the capacity to propose alternative policies or laws,” he said.
Steggall said House of Representatives cruises should have a meeting next week in Canberra, where the issue is likely to be discussed.
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“He’s incredibly short-sighted of the prime minister. I don’t think that’s really a good omen,” he said.
“I would remind the Prime Minister that most of the labor policy, in terms of the fight against corruption and integrity and, forcing the government to be accountable and move the government on climate change and zero net commitments, has coming from transversal banking. of this work would not have been possible without advisers “.
Finance Minister Katy Gallagher said the decision was motivated by budget problems.
“We will be looking at an increase in the parliamentary library to help with resources on issues around Parliament, legislation, research, all of that stuff,” he said.
“But you know, we’re all making cuts and savings.”
He said it was the prerogative of the prime minister to assign staff.