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Parliamentary exchange over language and conduct
During a parliamentary session, a dispute arose after Treasurer Jim Chalmers allegedly used an unparliamentary term by calling the shadow treasurer a liar. The opposition raised a complaint, leading to a lengthy exchange between both sides.
“If lying is in order, this is a liar,” said Alex Hawke, manager of opposition business, pointing toward the Prime Minister.
Leader of the House Tony Burke countered, asserting that Hawke’s remark itself was unparliamentary. Speaker Milton Dick clarified that Jim Chalmers’ earlier comments on "lies" were not aimed at a specific person and instructed both Chalmers and Hawke to withdraw their statements. He reminded all members that “the word is fraught with danger.”
Chalmers accuses opposition of false claims
Shadow treasurer Ted O’Brien questioned the Prime Minister on whether he would accept responsibility for what he called Jim Chalmers’ “spending spree.” When Chalmers rose to respond, O’Brien interrupted with, “Clearly not,” prompting a warning from the Speaker for disorderly conduct.
“I’m pleased that the member for Fairfax has taken a brief break from undermining his own leader,” Chalmers remarked before accusing the opposition of spreading “egregious lies” about government spending.
Session outcome
The exchange ended with the Speaker reiterating his caution on parliamentary language, emphasizing decorum in debate, and urging members to focus on substantive discussion.
Author’s summary: A heated exchange in Parliament saw Jim Chalmers and opposition members trade accusations and warnings over claims of dishonesty and spending.