Climate change presents a new kind of challenge. It is uncertain in its form and extent, rather than drawn in clear lines. It is insidious, rather than directly confrontational. It is long term, rather than immediate in both its impacts and its remedies. Remedies will require global co-operation of unprecedented complexity and dimension. We have much to contribute and much to lose as we face the diabolical policy challenge of climate change. (Professor Ross Garnaut)
The role of governments in the regulation of all manner of safety standards has generally been accepted for many years. The purpose of any government regulation (and aviation regulation is no exception) is to guard against actions which are potentially detrimental to society. Enforcement of the regulations becomes necessary when regulations are not being adhered to and society suffers as a result.
Perhaps the principal conclusion to be drawn from today's policy challenges is that it would have been better to avoid the build-up of credit excesses in the first place. (Bank of International Settlements)
Yet another bad poll for Brendan Nelson, this time from Morgan who have combined two weekends’ worth of face-to-face polling after going quiet last week. This has Labor’s two-party lead up to 61-39 from 58.5-41.5 at the previous poll conducted on June 7/8, which was also face-to-face. Labor is up from 48.5 per cent to [...]
Seems Morgan have taken the week off, not counting its release of qualitative findings from federal polling conducted from June 4 to 9, leaving the following collection to stand on its own:
• The Launceston Examiner has published findings from an EMRS poll showing new Tasmanian Premier David Bartlett leading Liberal leader Will Hodgman 46 per [...]
Wholesale constitutional reform in Australia is long overdue. The starting point should be true independence. It is past time for an Australian Republic. ... Surely we are sufficiently grown up to be masters of our own affairs. (Joel Fitzgibbon)
But let’s be charitable – if nothing else can unite the divided citizens of Cyprus, maybe five minutes with Alex will do the trick. (Bernard Keane)
Mumble reports Newspoll has Labor’s lead dropping from 59-41 to 55-45, with primary votes of 44 per cent for Labor, 39 per cent for Coalition, 10 per cent for Greens and 7 per cent others. More to follow.
Meanwhile, Alexander Downer confirms he will quit parliament to take up a job as United Nations special envoy [...]
New South Wales Legislative Council has released its report on Electoral and Political Party Funding in NSW. Among other things, the committee recommends a $1,000 cap on private donations and a ban on corporate donations. "Political donations and election spending would be disclosed in a timely, transparent and accessible manner," says the report.
This week we will sadly see the last of the Australian Democrat senators leave parliament. It will be the end of an era and the end of a dream. Who knows how long it will take for the opportunity of true democracy to return to Australia? Who will keep the bastards honest now?
Blogotariat is a platform to enhance the role of blog commentary and its growing influence on Mainstream Media and the political process – the great contest of ideas essential to a civil society. If you wish to contribute editorially or add your blog please use the Contact menu to send some info.
