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Liberal MP Julian Leeser has issued an “unreserved” apology to Indian Australians following comments made by Liberal senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, which a Labor MP described as “frankly disgusting”.
Leeser, who serves as the Opposition’s legal affairs spokesperson, expressed regret for any “offence” caused by Price’s comments last week. Price had suggested that the federal government prioritizes migrants from “certain countries,” specifically mentioning the Indian community.
Price later clarified her remarks after an ABC interview, but her initial comments about alleged preferential treatment towards Indian migration stirred division.
Leeser noted that Price had retracted her statements on migration, but shared that he felt compelled to address the issue while speaking at a Hindi school in NSW over the weekend.
“My colleague Jacinta Price made remarks this week for which I wish to apologise unreservedly,” he stated.
“Let me say very clearly, the contribution of Indian Australians to this country is fantastic. The Indian community is fantastic. And you know what? India, like Australia, is a democracy,” Leeser said.
“Indian Australians support different political parties. What matters is not how you vote but the outstanding contributions you make to the country. I acknowledge and deeply value these contributions.”
Price regretful, has not heard from Sussan Ley
Leeser also spoke about Opposition leader Sussan Ley’s position on Price’s statement.
“As my leader Sussan Ley said, she was wrong to say it, and she has walked back those remarks and I am pleased that she has,” he said.
In an interview with Sky News on Monday night, Price said she has regrets about her comments.
“The regret that I have is that I wasn’t clearer in terms of my comments on the ABC … and since then have made a clarification,” Price said.
She said she has not heard from Ley regarding her comments on Indian migration.
“I have not had a conversation with the leader [Sussan Ley] specifically about that issue,” Price said.
“I guess I would expect that I would hear directly from the leader herself if it was of huge concern; it didn’t appear to be of huge concern.”
“The comments were wrong, not correct. They should not have taken place,” she said.
“Such comments will not be reiterated. My ongoing message is one of gratitude to the Indian community for their significant contributions and representation in all sectors of Australian society.”
Price should apologise, PM says
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for Price to apologise for her comments and “the hurt that has been caused”.
“The comments are not true that the senator made, and of course, she should apologise for the hurt that has been caused, and her own colleagues are saying that. But even more importantly, leaders in the community are asking for that as well,” Albanese told ABC Radio on Tuesday morning.
“It is important to make clear my position, which is that the Indian Australian community has made our nation stronger. They contribute to our economy, our communities.
“They’re a vital part of modern Australia, and I just say to the Indian community, you’re valued.”
