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Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young has written to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission requesting an investigation into Katter’s conduct.
The Queensland MP’s threat came after he was questioned about his heritage ahead of ‘March for Australia’ rallies that took place across the country on Sunday.
He confronted Nine reporter Josh Bavas and thrust a fist in his face when asked about his family’s Lebanese heritage in fiery scenes in Brisbane on Thursday.
Bob Katter, the longest-standing member of the federal parliament, expressed to SBS News on Monday that he had no regrets regarding the incident, even stating he wished he had “taken it further” with his threat.
“Threats of violence have no place in Australian political discourse, especially coming from a member of parliament,” Hanson-Young said.
“The threat on Friday was bad enough, but to have now doubled down on it and said he should have been ‘more aggressive’ is unthinkable for someone in public life.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Friday Katter should “have a look at himself” and “that’s not what we expect of any Australian, let alone someone who’s in public office”.
Hanson-Young has called for Katter to leave the parliament if he is not prepared to make an apology for his actions.
“Mr Katter has doubled down because he hasn’t received any sanction. He seems to think that the normal rules of respectful engagement don’t apply to him. This is not ok,” she said.
“Mr Katter should unreservedly apologise to Josh Bavas or resign from parliament.”
SBS News has contacted Katter’s office for comment.
