House debates Tax Laws Amendment (2008 Measures No. 2) Bill 2008

Consideration in Detail

Wednesday, 14 May 2008 House of Representatives

Michael Keenan

Michael Keenan Stirling, Liberal Party, Shadow Assistant Treasurer

11:32 am

The opposition have no objection to these amendments. There is good reason why we need to pass these measures quickly. I do note that all of the measures are coalition policy, either introduced or announced by the previous coalition government, with the exception of the tax deductibility for political donations. I just might say on that matter that the opposition are very, very happy to have a debate about the funding of political parties in Australia. I think it is a very important debate. What we do object to is this cynical exercise of including within a tax bill a measure that should appropriately be referred to the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters, where these matters are traditionally debated at the conclusion of any election in Australia. I think it is a good indication of the cynicism of this new government that they would include a measure like this within a tax bill with these much needed measures. As I have said, we are very happy to have a conversation about the funding of political parties in Australia. It is a terribly important discussion, but it is not one that we should have in relation to a tax laws amendment bill. I support what the government is doing in bringing these measures forward. This has the support of the opposition.

Question agreed to.

Bill, as amended, agreed to.

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