Although I have not read the report of Catherine Holmes, SC, I gather it revolves around two issues in our system of governance

One is the collapse of responsible government in the Westminster System – no one in parliament or the civil service is responsible for anything. 

Another is a fundamental misconception about the role of welfare.  Looking after those who cannot look after themselves is an essential function of government here (but not the U S).  Government does not perform that function by making insulting remarks about the need for a strong policeman on the beat.

And now those who were fairly and heavily criticised in the report, and what are called their boosters in the press, have responded on script.

None of the ministers was responsible for this unlawful tragedy, and the leading civil servant in the gun is sitting pat on $900K.

Not one word of sympathy or apology from any of them.

The Leader of the Opposition says the government is ‘politicising’ the report.  He warns against trial by media.

The Australian could not have been more predictable.  Its editorial begins ‘Apart from the odd slice of emotionalism…’ and goes on to say that the Commission was on ‘less solid ground’ calling for politicians ‘to lead a change in social attitudes to people receiving welfare payments.’

The lady running the Commission looks to me to have done a fine and very needed job. 

But for some people in politics and the press, she may as well shout at the deaf.

Quod erat demonstrandum.

Robodebt – Liberal Party – Murdoch.