1998 Federal Election and Matters Related Thereto
Media Releases

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

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