Federal MP Helen Haines Loses Both Legs in Alleged Attack
Parliament unites in condemnation as police investigate unknown motive behind Wangaratta incident.
Carla Rooney
Federal MP Helen Haines lost both her legs in an alleged attack outside her Wangaratta office.
Police have not revealed a motive for the alleged attack. The incident's motivation remains under investigation.
All sides of parliament paid tribute to Ms. Haines. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese proposed a motion, expressing parliament's wish for her recovery and support for her family.
Mr. Albanese stated the shock from the alleged attack was "like a stone in our hearts."
Like a stone in our hearts.
Opposition leader Angus Taylor claimed vigorous parliamentary debate should not spill over into violence. He stated the Westminster system settles differences through robust and rigorous debate, not violence.
Taylor added that violence rejects tradition and refuses to accommodate difference and disagreement.
Some suggest a causal connection between robust parliamentary debate and political violence. Mr. Taylor addressed this claim directly.
Speaker Milton Dick noted that some lawmakers suggested colleagues sign a civility pledge. Kate Chaney intends to follow Ms. Haines' example by making such a pledge.
Allegra Spender claimed Ms. Haines' first words after waking were for her staff and gratitude to first responders, nurses, and bystanders. Zali Stegall placed an orange cut-out of a cockatoo on Ms. Haines' seat.
Angus Taylor indicated that The Westminster system settles differences through robust and rigorous debate, not violence. Violence rejects tradition and refuses to accommodate difference and disagreement.
Security screening measures were enhanced at Parliament House following the alleged attack. Mr. Taylor called for all extremism to be rejected.
He also urged judges to "come down harder" on those found guilty of intimidation or violence.