verging_on_random

Libs condemn Hansonism!! Oh wait …

December 9, 2006 on 7:20 am | In Uncategorized |

Howard and his colleagues have frequently been criticised for failing to distance themselves from the blatant ignorance, racism and bigotry expressed by Pauline Hanson. They have often seemed to disagree with her using carefully chosen words that suggest she’s got a good heart but maybe goes a bit over the top at times. Presumably the intention is to signal to rednecks and bigots that the Liberal Party actually thinks much the same as Hanson but political caution prevents them saying so.

Hanson has now announced that she’s considering standing for parliament again and here’s one minister’s reaction:

HOCKEY: Well she’s entitled to have her view, she’s entitled to run and people will decide. But I disagree with a number of the views which she’s expressed and I think a number of people would.

Joe you just ‘disagree’ with ‘a number’ of her views. Presumably that means there are some you agree with. Which ones are they, can you tell us? That black Africans should be barred from entering the country because they’re all riddled with disease? That Muslims are trying to kill Christmas by banning carol singing? That Muslims want to close all our public swimming pools?

Here’s what Andrew Bartlett from the Democrats had to say:

“Once again Pauline Hanson opens her mouth and spreads offensive urban myths that bear no resemblance to reality,” Bartlett said in a statement.

How about saying something like that Joe? Oh wait, that might upset some of your redneck supporters who couldn’t care less whether they’re urban myths or not, they just love any excuse to hate people who don’t match their narrow conception of what it means to be ‘Australian’. No doubt some media commentators will praise you for your political astuteness.

I condemn you for your moral opportunism.