Call Time On Conduct Unbecoming By Those We Elect

Sydney Morning Herald

Friday December 5, 2008

On the very day Federal Parliament recognised the lifelong and selfless dedication to the public good of Frank Crean, a modern-day mug from his beloved party allegedly attempts to profit from his privileged position and the misery of a troubled soul ("MP caught up in cash for photograph scandal", December 4). Fortunately Frank was not yet in his grave and thereby saved the effort of turning in it.

John Tuckfield Abbotsford

The fuss about the MP who allegedly tried to sell photos he had taken of a man threatening to set fire to himself is really a compliment to MPs. It shows that although politicians rate poorly in public trust and esteem they are still expected to display a higher standard of conduct than the general public. It is not surprising that the Speaker was unsure whether he had any power to investigate the matter, as such a deal by a member of the public would not have raised a comment. A code of conduct would protect the public and MPs.

James Moore Kingsgrove

The Remuneration Tribunal has recommended an increase to MP salaries ("Politicians need $100,000 pay rise to keep up with mandarins", December 4). Perhaps if he were better paid, James Bidgood would not have felt compelled to attempt to sell his photos. Seeking to profit or to obtain return from the misfortunes of another is conduct not only unbecoming of an MP, but of any responsible human being. Unfortunately, in this day of immediate digital broadcast through the internet, more and more people are becoming less discerning about the posting of images. The thrill of so-called fame outweighs the benefit of self-censorship.

Philip Cooney Wentworth Falls

Another of our elected representatives exhibits poor behaviour in the house, then resigns as a member of the State Opposition front bench ("Push comes to shove as Fraser axed", December 4). If this member came intoxicated into the house he should be thrown out as the elected representative for those in the Coffs Harbour area who placed him in a most responsible position.

Bruce Apps Townsend

John Conde, the president of the Remuneration Tribunal, suggests cabinet ministers deserve a salary increase of well over $100,000. Perhaps he would like to share his thoughts on the salaries of teachers, nurses, police, etc. And who determines the salaries of the members of the Remuneration Tribunal?

Bob Atchison Quirindi

Maybe the reasons that Andrew Fraser lost it was fatigue and drink. Why should Parliament still be sitting at 10.30pm when under Morris Iemma there were meant to be more family-friendly hours? Fatigue in any workplace can cause accidents - are our MPs any different? Surely sitting more days each year would solve the problem. State Parliament must be one of the few workplaces where you can have a drink while working. Maybe there should be random testing for all MPs, as there are in other workplaces.

Robert Pallister Punchbowl

Perhaps Parliament should revert to 10pm closing.

Carolyn Wills Cremorne

© 2008 Sydney Morning Herald

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