Church And State Reunited
Amanda O’Brien – The Australian
SIX months after being elected, a god-squad of devout Liberals preaching morality and Christian values in a parliament better known for misconduct and lewd behaviour is shaping as a new force in West Australian politics.
While their views are not unique – other state politicians such as Liberal David Clarke, Christian Democrats Fred Nile and Gordon Moyes in NSW, and Family First’s Robert Brokenshire and Dennis Hood in South Australia, have pushed similar themes for years – the new MPs in Western Australia potentially pack a bigger punch.
They’re in government, not Opposition, and they have the numbers.
The group is being closely watched after putting Premier Colin Barnett on notice that integrity and moral certainties would guide their votes.
Chief among the Bible-belters, Peter Abetz, an ordained minister of the Christian Reformed Church and the brother of right-wing Liberal senator Eric Abetz, makes no bones about his intention to put his Christian values first, even if it means breaking ranks. (more…)
















