[Greens-Media] PARNELL: Back-date lobby code 12 months

[Parnell]

Media Release
Monday 31st August 2009

Lobby code needs to be back-dated 12 months

Greens MLC Mark Parnell has called for lobbyists' client lists to be back-dated for 12 months, as part of a strengthening of the Government's Register of Lobbyists announced late on Friday.

"The Government's lobby code and rules for retired Ministers do not go nearly far enough," said Greens MLC Mark Parnell.

"If someone wants to continue operating as a lobbyist after the new rules take effect on December the 1st, they should come clean with their list of clients they have represented over the last 12 months.

"Otherwise, there's nothing to stop a lobbyist quietly dropping any clients they have recently had that could give rise to embarrassing questions.

"If this move is about increasing transparency, let's ensure the community is aware of all the facts," he said.

The 12 month back-date call for lobbyists is part of a long list of Greens demands to improve accountability and transparency of Government decision making, including:

§         Banning lobbyists from Government Boards and Committees

§         Banning Ministers from attending exclusive party fundraising dinners

§         Restricting political donations only to individuals up to $1,000

§         Quarterly disclosure of all donations to political parties

§         Reform of Freedom of Information laws

§         The formation of an Independent Commission against Corruption

§         A ban on taxpayer-funded party-political Government advertising

"We urgently need much stronger rules governing the political culture in South Australia.

"There is an unhealthy perception that Government decisions can be unduly influenced by who you know, or how generous a donor you are.

"The big question is: will the Rann Government have the courage to challenge the culture they've created?" he said.


For further comment contact Craig Wilkins on 0434 007 893





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