Parliamentary Clash Over Albanese’s Quotes

In a heated session of parliament, opposition leader Peter Dutton accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of misleading members by selectively quoting from Australia’s spy chief, Mike Burgess.

Dutton’s criticism arose after Albanese made statements regarding asylum applications from individuals fleeing war zones. He claimed that Albanese’s quotes gave the impression that all applicants undergo security checks, an assertion Dutton termed as ‘duplicitous.’

This back-and-forth began last week when Dutton suggested that Palestinians fleeing conflict should not automatically be granted visas, stating it was dangerous to let them in during the ongoing tensions.

During the debate, Dutton pressed for a detailed explanation from Albanese regarding how many of the nearly 3,000 visas issued recently were granted without a security assessment from Asio.

House affairs minister, who responded to Dutton, labeled him a ‘sook’ and criticized his approach, suggesting that his demands were irresponsible and politically motivated.

Burke added that Dutton’s history of comments often aimed to divide communities in Australia and noted the inconsistency in his statements compared to previous humanitarian efforts.

Albanese pushed back against Dutton’s claims, reaffirming that Australia’s security agencies are involved no matter where a visa applicant comes from.

The tension escalated further as Dutton sought legal advice on comments made by independent MP Zali Steggall, who described his stance on Palestinian arrivals as ‘racist.’

On the radio, Albanese remarked on Dutton’s divisive nature and emphasized the importance of supporting Australia’s security measures rather than undermining them.

Earlier, the prime minister clarified that under the current context, very few individuals are leaving Gaza, making Dutton’s call for a pause puzzling.