An independent MP has called for politicians to open their diaries to the public, amid transparency concerns resurrected by revelations in a new book about Qantas’ influence over politicians.
Specifically, a new book by former Australian Financial Review columnist Joe Aston reveals that when he was transport minister, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese directly contacted then-Qantas CEO Alan Joyce to request upgrades on as many as 22 flights.
Independent MP Helen Haines told ABC RN Breakfast there were still “real gaps” in Australia’s transparency regulations. She argued in favour of ministerial diaries being open to the public, as has been legislated in Queensland, Victoria and NSW.
Independent MP Helen Haines.Credit: Alex Ellinghausen
“We don’t know who’s meeting with decision-makers behind closed doors in parliamentary offices. I think we need to do much better on that,” Haines said.
“I think [opening diaries] would help with this. I think it would also take away accusations and allegations if this was much clearer, the whole public would see who’s meeting decision-makers, who they are, and then trace any other influence that may be happening in that regard.”
Haines admitted she was a member of Qantas’ exclusive Chairman’s Lounge, noting that “every MP and senator, when they are elected, receives membership to both the Qantas and the Virgin lounge”.
“I think it is really important that whatever gift that we may receive that we document that and we reflect really closely on whether any gifts are, in fact, influencing any decisions.”
Commenting specifically on gifts and the allegations that Albanese directly asked for upgrades, Haines said it was “inappropriate to solicit gifts of any kind”.
“I expressly ask not to be given gifts when I’m when I’m invited to events, for example. I’m sure many other MPs are the same.”
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