Pauline Hanson, leader of Pauline Hanson's One Nation, has reportedly slammed the door shut on any prospect of controversial Victorian independent MP Moira Deeming joining her party, according to an exclusive report by Crikey.
The refusal, outlined in Crikey's 'The Snoop' column, signals a clear distancing from Deeming, whose recent political history has been marked by a divisive anti-trans rally and subsequent expulsion from the Victorian Liberal Party. The decision by Hanson, a seasoned and often polarising figure in Australian politics herself, suggests a strategic move to avoid further entanglement with Deeming's brand of activism, which has drawn widespread criticism.
No Room for Deeming in One Nation, Says Hanson
Crikey reported that sources close to One Nation indicated Hanson’s definitive stance against recruiting Deeming. This development will likely send ripples through conservative political circles, particularly given Deeming's ongoing search for a political home since her high-profile departure from the Liberals last year. Deeming's tenure in the Victorian Parliament has been tempestuous, characterised by her strong conservative views and her involvement in a rally that attracted neo-Nazis, an association she has vehemently denied endorsing.
For One Nation, a party that has carefully cultivated its image, albeit one frequently scrutinised, incorporating a figure as contentious as Deeming could be seen as an unnecessary risk. Hanson’s reported decision underscores a pragmatic approach to party management, prioritising the party’s existing platform over potential ideological alignment with a politically embattled figure.
Trump's 'Mad' Call to Starmer Revealed
Across the globe, former US President Donald Trump has once again captured headlines with a characteristically unconventional move. Crikey's 'The Snoop' column also detailed reports of a "mad" inaugural phone call between Trump and UK Labour leader Keir Starmer. While the specifics of the conversation remain under wraps, the mere fact of Trump initiating contact with Starmer, rather than the current Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, has raised diplomatic eyebrows.
Such a call, if accurately reported, bypasses established diplomatic protocols and could be interpreted as a deliberate snub to the incumbent British government. Trump's history of unconventional diplomacy and his often-strained relationships with traditional allies suggest this move is less an oversight and more a calculated political statement, potentially looking ahead to a future where Starmer might lead the UK government. The implications for the 'special relationship' between the US and UK, particularly if Trump were to return to the White House, are significant.
Germany Considers End to 'Sickie' Culture
Meanwhile, in a move that would undoubtedly shock many Australians, Germany is reportedly contemplating an end to its long-standing tradition of easily accessible 'sickies.' The Crikey report highlighted discussions within Germany about overhauling its sick leave policies, traditionally perceived as quite generous.
Australia, with its own robust sick leave entitlements, might look on with interest, if not a touch of disbelief. The German proposal, if enacted, could see a significant shift in workplace culture, potentially requiring more stringent verification for short-term absences. For decades, the German system has allowed employees to self-certify sick leave for a few days without a doctor's note, a practice that has been ingrained in the national work ethic. The economic and social implications of such a change, designed to boost productivity and reduce absenteeism, would be substantial. One can only imagine what former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, famed for his working-class roots and advocacy for workers' rights, might have said about such a proposition – likely, not much in favour.
