Paul Bongiorno writes in the New Daily (15.2.16) that recent ministerial scandals pose a threat to Malcolm Turnbull’s re-election.
‘There is a salutary lesson … for the present government. The latest Fairfax-Ipsos poll shows the crown is slipping and the self-harm with ministerial scandals and policy waffle is taking a toll. …
‘In Queensland in the 1980s, I witnessed first-hand the “white shoe” brigade buying off ministers and even a Premier for huge gains. The Fitzgerald Inquiry didn’t buy their argument: “What’s good for me is good for the state.” Neither should we. Greater donation limitations and transparency are needed urgently to preserve the national interest from greedy vested interests.’