Australian ex-PM faces censure on secret posts

SYDNEY — Australia's Labor government said it will move a parliamentary censure motion against former prime minister Scott Morrison this week after an inquiry found his secret appointment to multiple ministries undermined trust in government.

Morrison, who lost in the May general election, secretly accumulated five ministerial roles during the COVID-19 pandemic: health, finance, treasury, resources and home affairs.

A recent inquiry by a former high court judge found his actions had been "corrosive of trust in government" and recommended closing several loopholes that allowed the appointments to remain secret.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Monday a motion of censure would be introduced to the Labor-controlled House of Representatives this week by either the leader of the house or the attorney general.

"This wasn't about a relationship between the former prime minister and his ministers. It's not a personal relationship between two mates over what happened down the pub," Albanese said during a news conference.

"This is about accountability of our democratic system, and whether the parliament was functioning properly."

An inquiry led by former High Court judge Virginia Bell last week made six recommendations for reform.

Having committed to all six changes, Albanese said legislation to require public notification of ministerial appointments will be introduced this week.

Agencies Via Xinhua