Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters
Media release, 22 March 1999
MPs TO GIVE EVIDENCE TO ELECTION INQUIRY
The Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters will hear a range
of views from members of parliament at its first hearing for the 1998
federal election inquiry.
"Members of parliament have a keen interest in the effective operation
of the election process," Committee Chair Mr Gary Nairn, Member for Eden
- Monaro, said. "I expect a number of productive suggestions will come
from the hearing, particularly in the area of truth in political advertising,
the treatment of independent MPs, and voting in remote locations."
Appearing before the Committee will be Mr Barry Wakelin MP (Grey), Mr
Peter Andren MP (Calare) and Mr Robert McClelland MP (Barton).
"I expect this hearing will also focus the minds of the Committee members
before the appearance of the Australian Electoral Commission and the Australian
Labor Party at a public hearing on 1 April." Mr Nairn said.
"Interest in the inquiry from the public has been very encouraging,"
Mr Nairn said. "We have already received more submissions that the previous
election inquiry. Increased awareness and concern for our electoral system
can only be good for its long term health."
The Committee expects to complete its report in the Spring sitting.
Ends
22 March 1999
Further information: Gary Nairn MP (Chair) 02 - 6297 3952
Bev Forbes (Secretary) 02 - 6277 4587