Andrew Leigh, Labor's assistant minister for competition, talks about the declining popularity of Anthony Albanese, Labor's struggles with the 'Yes' campaign, and the Defence Minister's golf club controversy. Other topics include the government's 'open skies' agreement for cheaper flights, record-breaking temperatures, and a legal complaint against the president of the Spanish Football Federation.
Labor's declining popularity is attributed to their questionable Qatar Airways decision and challenges faced in the Indigenous recognition campaign.
Assistant Minister for Competition, Andrew Leigh, emphasizes the government's focus on competition and affordability in addressing the cost of living crisis.
Deep dives
Qatar Airways Decision and Labor's Honeymoon
The Labor government is facing intense pressure over the Qatar Airways decision and is struggling to explain why it was in the national interest. The decision, made in June, has led to higher flight prices and is seen as benefiting Qantas at the expense of customers and the tourism industry. Labor Minister Andrew Lee, Assistant Minister for Competition, sidestepped questions about the decision's rationale and instead emphasized the need for competition in the aviation sector. The government's handling of the Qatar issue and their declining support in polls raise questions about the sustainability of their initial popularity since taking office.
The Referendum Campaign and Trust With Voters
Labor is leading a referendum campaign for constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians, but faces challenges as the 'voice' proposal is being met with opposition. The campaign is currently losing support, with the no vote rising to 53%. Despite this, Minister Lee affirms that the feedback he receives from constituents is positive and that there is enthusiasm for recognizing Indigenous Australians in the constitution. However, the divide on the voice proposal raises concerns about Labor's trust and credibility with voters.
Competition, Profiteering, and Cost of Living
As Assistant Minister for Competition, Andrew Lee discusses the government's efforts to prevent profiteering by companies in the face of a cost of living crisis. The ACCC is investigating price gouging, but there are calls for stronger action. Lee mentions the establishment of a Competition Task Force to address the decline in economic dynamism and competitiveness, aiming to bring actionable ideas to the government for implementation. The focus on competition and affordability reflects concerns about companies exploiting inflationary environments and increasing prices, impacting mortgage holders and ordinary Australians.
Anthony Albanese’s personal approval has dropped under the 50 per cent mark for the first time since he was elected Prime Minister. It’s as Labor battles fires on multiple fronts including their Qatar decision; their struggles with the ‘Yes’ campaign; and the Defence Minister’s golf club controversy.
In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley speaks with Andrew Leigh, Labor’s assistant minister for competition about whether the honeymoon is over.
Headlines:
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