In the National interest
No doubt current leaders of the Liberal party in Australia were squirming if not downright angry yesterday, to hear party icon Malcolm Fraser describing the Coalition anti-terror laws as a deplorable departure from protecting basic liberties. There’s no doubt that the Australian political landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, whereas some would argue that it’s no surprise the liberals want to bring in Industrial relations changes. But anyone who remembers the National Party of old, best known for protectionism and the creation of widespread farming co-operatives, might wonder how party stalwarts view John Howard’s proposal. This week, Queensland National Senator Barnaby Joyce agreed to back the bill, with only minor changes. And it appears that his decision has the support of the National party faithful. Former National party Member for Dawson from 1975 to 1996, Ray Braithwaite, says people should not be surprised to see the PM introducing such laws and that Malcolm Fraser has no right to pass judgement on the current government. San Collard, a former Qld Nationals Senator, says the laws will either make or break the unions.