Legislating the ministerial code of conduct will stop Abbott trashing it

MEDIA RELEASE
17 December 2013

Legislating the ministerial code of conduct will stop Abbott trashing it

Responding to reports that Prime Minister Tony Abbott will wind back the ministerial code of conduct, Australian Greens democracy spokesperson Senator Lee Rhiannon will push for the current version to be legislated when parliament resumes.  

“The Prime Minister’s plan to weaken the ministerial code of conduct is designed to reduce bad news stories as fewer Ministers will be caught out if the rules are weakened,” Senator Rhiannon said. 

“Mr Abbott has shown he has little regard for transparency and accountability.

“This move, driven by self-interest, highlights why incoming governments should not be allowed to rewrite the ministerial code of conduct at their discretion. 

“The recent exposure of MPs misusing their allowances along with numerous ICAC hearings has revealed alarming details about elected representatives engaging in corrupt activities. 

“Mr Abbott needs to move to restore not erode public confidence in democratic institutions. 

“Transparency, integrity and accountability are the cornerstones of a democracy and these important values should not be left up to the government of the day or individuals to define at their discretion. 

“Mr Abbott’s move highlights the urgency to legislate the ministerial code of conduct and I will be talking to my Labor colleagues to assess their support”, Senator Rhiannon said.

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