Former prime minister Tony Abbott has joined the ranks of Liberal figures who declined to support Scott Morrison and his decision to secretly give himself ministerial portfolios.
, following scathing advice from the nation’s top lawyer.
“On the other hand, we’ve got a report from the solicitor-general. It clearly says that there was nothing illegal done, but it also clearly indicates that it is just highly unconventional, highly unorthodox and shouldn’t have happened.” “When you don’t get good, sensible behaviour, the best recourse is through the political process,” he said.Liberal deputy leader Sussan Ley said the coalition acknowledged the advice found the process of appointments could be made more transparent and pledged to work with the government.
Mr Morrison said while many Australians would not agree with, accept or understand the decisions he made, he acted with the best of intentions to “protect Australia in the face of multiple crises”.He said the legal authorities were valid, there was “no consistent process” for publishing details of ministries, and that ministers had “exercised their portfolio authorities fully” with his confidence and trust “without intervention”.
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