Murray Watt (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Northern Australia) | Hansard source

When asked why it took the Prime Minister so long to declare a national emergency following the recent floods, this minister replied that the Prime Minister must consult with state and territory premiers. But the relevant legislation clearly states the Prime Minister does not need to consult premiers if 'it is not practicable to do so'. Why did the minister mislead flood victims when trying to explain the Prime Minister's delay in declaring a national emergency?