A Hunter-based Nationals Senator has walked away from Sussan Ley’s front bench after the Coalition’s split over hate speech laws.
The Opposition Leader confirmed in a statement on Wednesday 21 January that she had accepted the resignations of local legislator Ross Cadell, Bridget McKenzie and Susan McDonald.
It’s been reported the trio, as well as backbencher Matt Canavan, voted against Labor’s bill in the Upper House the previous night.
Mr Cadell, the Shadow Minister for Water, Shadow Minister for Fisheries and Forestry and Shadow Minister for Emergency Management, admitted he held real fears about the legislation.
“I’m willing to take the consequences of my actions,” he told reporters in Canberra.
“I think that is fair.
“It’s what I should do.
“I can’t do the crime if I’m not prepared to do the time.
“If more people stood up for what they believe… and didn’t play the game, this would be a better place.
“Australia would be a better country.”
The decision by the group of Nationals contradicted a party room ruling to vote in favour of the laws, which are in response to the 14 December Bondi terrorist attack.
But, just 20 minutes before voting started in the Senate, David Littleproud released a statement announcing his party would vote against the bill if amendments guaranteeing greater protections against unintended consequences on freedom of speech failed to succeed.
Politicians in the Shadow cabinet are required by convention to stick to the position agreed to by the front bench.
- With AAP
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