“The last straw”: Scott Morrison vows to stamp out “bullying culture” in Liberal Party
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has vowed to stamp out the “bullying culture” in the Liberal Party after MP Julia Banks announced her resignation from Parliament at the next election yesterday.
Ms Banks, who holds the marginal seat of Chisolm in Victoria, claims bullying, intimidation and the unstable leadership surrounding the political party as the “last straw.”
She said that she received over a hundred emails from community members who wanted Malcolm Turnbull to remain Prime Minister and Julie Bishop to continue her role as deputy party leader.
“I have always listened to the people who elected me and put Australia’s national interest before internal political games, factional party figures, self-proclaimed power-brokers and certain media personalities who bear vindictive, mean-spirited grudges intent on settling their personal scores,” said Ms Banks in a statement.
“Last week’s events were the last straw.”
Ms Banks said she felt it was her responsibility to report the injustices occurring within the party, and that she does not tolerate bullying or intimidation.
“I have experienced this both from within my party and from the Labor Party,” she said.
“The scourge of cultural and gender bias, bullying and intimidation continues against women in politics, the media and across business.”
After her statement was released via her Twitter account, Prime Minister Scott Morrison promised to eliminate bullying culture in the party.
“I will consult with my colleagues about ensuring that there can be no question about the culture of the Liberal Party,” Mr Morrison told reporters in Sydney.
“There should not be, and certainly under my authority, there would have been absolutely nothing of that sort taking place.”
Ms Banks has Mr Morrison's full support after choosing to take time off for her health and wellbeing.
“My first concern is for her welfare and wellbeing and she is taking the time to ensure that that’s taken care of and she has my support fully in that,” he said.
Senior minister Mathias Cormann has said that all investigations regarding bullying are a matter for the Liberal Party.
Speaking to reporters in Perth, Mr Cormann said “I’ve got very high regard for Julia Banks. I’m obviously disappointed that she’s made that decision, but I respect the decision.”
The senator stated that he has always treated his fellow colleagues with the respect and courtesy they deserve and does not condone the mistreatment of others.
Following her resignation announcement, Ms Banks has promised to fight for gender equality and has shut down criticism of her playing the gender card.
“Women have suffered in silence for too long and in the last twelve months, the world has seen many courageous women speak out,” she said.