The massive response to a new book’s revelations about politicians’ relationships with Qantas proved the public is fed up with political freebies, says its author.
Former Australian Financial Review columnist Joe Aston published his book The Chairman’s Lounge this week, detailing 22 upgrades Prime Minister Anthony Albanese received when he was transport minister, allegedly by directly contacting former CEO Alan Joyce.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with former Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce in 2023.Credit: AAP
The Coalition seized on the issue, with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton criticising Albanese’s “strange arrangements” with Joyce, while earlier this morning, Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie called for Alan Joyce to be brought before a Senate inquiry.
Responding to that call, Aston questioned the Coalition’s change of tune on Nine’s Today, referring to Qantas’ appearance before a Senate inquiry last year.
“[Qantas] thumbed their nose at the Senate inquiry. And then the Senate voted not to force Qantas to come back and answer the questions properly. So I don’t know why all of a sudden they’re outraged now,” Aston said.
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“I think the issue is quite politicised. So obviously, the Coalition would love to have an inquiry.”
As for the considerable response to the book’s reporting, Aston said it showed the public is “fed up with politicians taking freebies”.
Aston referred to a scandal currently enveloping new UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has repaid the costs of tickets to concerts and sporting events he received as freebies after criticism.
“If Anthony Albanese had to repay all of the free tickets he’d taken as a politician, he’d have to file for personal bankruptcy,” Aston said.
“And look, that doesn’t make Albo Robinson Crusoe either. It’s just such a common thing. And I think politicians need to realise that Australians have had enough.”
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