Questions are mounting over the Hodgman government’s ongoing refusal to confirm or deny whether Solicitor-General’s advice was sought on the constitutionality, or other impacts, of the Workplaces (Protection from Protesters) Bill 2014.
“The simple question whether Solicitor-General’s advice has been sought or not by government about this Bill was asked at least nine times over the last two days, during Question Time and debates, and every time it went unanswered,” Greens Justice spokesperson Nick McKim MP said.
“Even Paul Lennon was happy to reveal whether his government had sought Solicitor General's advice on a range of issues, and he was rightly regarded as one of the most secretive Premiers this State has seen."
“There are clear precedents set where Ministers confirm whether Solicitor-General’s advice has been sought or received on a public policy issue of the day. In Opposition the Liberals asked such questions, with the only difference being that they received the courtesy of an answer.”
“The more the Liberals try and duck and weave questions seeking confirmation whether legal advice was sought or obtained, the more it becomes clear the government has something to hide.”
“Clearly there is no place for transparency or accountability under a majority Hodgman government,” Mr McKim said.
Attached: Hansard excerpts of the nine instances over two days where Greens and Labor MPs asked if legal advice had been sought on the proposed anti-protest laws.