Under-fire Queensland MP Bob Katter has doubled down on his threat to punch a journalist, saying his only regret was not being “more aggressive,” as the Greens call for parliament’s new standards watchdog to take action.
The 80-year-old independent waved his fist at Nine reporter Josh Bavas – who has Hellenic heritage – last week when asked about his Lebanese heritage during a press conference supporting anti-immigration rallies. He later declared: “I’ve punched blokes in the face for less.”
On Monday, Katter insisted: “Far from apologising, I should have just kept going… I hope I don’t run across him again. He better examine his conscience.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Coalition MPs and crossbenchers condemned the threat, while Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young has now written to Speaker Milton Dick and the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission demanding a referral.
“There is a clear double standard when this behaviour is dismissed by some as the actions of a colourful bloke when other MPs or senators wouldn’t be let off so lightly,” Hanson-Young said. “Katter should apologise or resign.”
The commission, set up last year, has powers to suspend MPs or dock their pay. It is unclear whether the incident, which took place outside parliament, falls within its remit.
Despite criticism, Katter – one of the few MPs to attend Sunday’s anti-immigration marches, which also drew neo-Nazis – stood firm. “Our national identity is a sacred thing,” he said. “If we lose that, we’ve lost everything.”
The matter has fuelled debate over political standards, with Nine demanding an apology and backing its reporter.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald
