Australian MP Ejected for Swearing During Climate Debate

A Coalition Member of Parliament was removed from Australia's House of Representatives on Wednesday after shouting "bulls***" at Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during a debate on climate change. The incident occurred when One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce questioned the government's $8.7 billion allocation to the Department of Climate Change.

Joyce argued that the department should be eliminated to save money, asserting it had "absolutely no prospects whatsoever of changing the climate." In response, Albanese defended his government's investments, stating that "decades of science and advice on climate change" confirm its reality and the need to address it. He emphasized that climate science indicates extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

During Albanese's remarks, Wide Bay MP Llew O'Brien interjected with the expletive, leading Speaker Milton Dick to immediately order his expulsion from the chamber for three hours. "Swearing in the parliament is completely unacceptable," Dick stated, adding that such language would not be tolerated by the parliament or Australia.

Following the disruption, Albanese continued his address, noting the rising costs of climate impacts such as warming oceans on communities and governments.

The outburst follows recent calls by Albanese for a calmer political environment, particularly in the wake of an alleged attack on Independent MP Helen Haines. Haines sustained severe injuries, requiring the amputation of both her legs, after an incident outside her electorate office. The accused faces serious charges.

Upon Parliament's return, Speaker Dick reiterated his plea for colleagues to exhibit "respect and courtesy" towards one another, highlighting Haines's example of respectful discourse even amidst disagreements.