23 August 2016
Sydney, 23 August 2016: Today’s revelation by Manager of Opposition Business, Tony Burke MP, that Labor intends to use its proposed royal commission to test the strength of the Government’s one-seat majority proves Labor’s motivations are purely political.
Australian Bankers’ Association Chief Executive Steven Münchenberg said: “It says a lot that Labor has not produced a terms of reference in the four months since it first called for a royal commission – yet has clearly locked down its use as a political tactic against the Government.”
Mr Burke warned the Government that Labor intends to move Parliamentary motions for a suspension of standing orders in favour of a debate and vote on the proposed inquiry when Parliament resumes next week.
“Labor has made all sorts of claims for a royal commission but clearly the real reason is just to attack the Government. It is disappointing that this political tactic risks undermining confidence in our banking system which sits at the core of the economy, at a time of growing global uncertainty.
“In the meantime, banks will get on with implementing comprehensive new measures to protect customer interests, increase transparency and accountability and build trust and confidence in banks.”
ENDS
Contact: Stephanie Arena 0477 470 677 or Nic Frankham 0435 963 913
Latest news
This op-ed was originally published in the Australian Financial Review More rates pain denotes an even greater focus on the fight against inflation. Rightly so. As the Reserve Bank pulls harder on the monetary policy lever to reduce aggregate demand, a proper focus also falls on the role of all governments to do likewise through… Read more »
Banks welcome Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ release today of draft regulations to lift the cap on covered bond issuance, a practical step that would help small and mid-tier banks access cheaper, more stable funding. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said these changes, including streamlined reporting for smaller banks, are a welcome part of the Government’s broader productivity… Read more »
Banks have welcomed Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson’s call today for the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to give more weight to economic growth in their decision making. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said regulation that supports growth is key to lifting productivity across the economy. “Banks want to… Read more »