After using constitutional uncertainty to justify voting against marriage equality legislation last year, Premier Will Hodgman must now consider his draconian anti-protest laws in light of Professor George Williams’ opinion that they are on ‘quite shaky constitutional grounds’.
“The Premier was quite happy to use his fear of a High Court challenge to justify voting against marriage equality last year, so it’s bizarre that he would be so blithely unconcerned that one of Australia’s foremost constitutional experts has raised concerns that the anti protest laws may not survive a high court challenge,” said Greens Justice spokesperson Nick McKim MP.
“When I asked in parliament last month whether the government had sought Solicitor General’s advice on this matter, I was effectively told to mind my own business.”
“Mr Hodgman’s ideological attack on freedom of expression may leave Tasmanian taxpayers to foot the bill if these draconian laws are challenged in the High Court.”
“Mr Hodgman should accept that he’s gone way too far this time, and withdraw his ridiculous Bill before it is debated in the Upper House,” Mr McKim said.