Australia politics live: speculation teals may form new party; Gaza flotilla activists arrive home

Treatment of Australians by Israeli forces and minister ‘disgraceful’: Butler

The health minister, Mark Butler, says the government has raised “in the strongest possible way” its concerns with the Israeli government over the treatment of Australian and international activists detained by Israel after their flotilla was intercepted in international waters.

He singled out Israeli minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir who was condemned internationally after posting a video of himself abusing the activists captured.

Butler told the ABC:

double quotation markWe have [raised these issues] in the strongest possible terms, both in Israel itself, but also with the Israeli ambassador to Australia here in Canberra.

The treatment of those Australians and people from many other countries as well has been disgraceful, particularly the behaviour of Minister Ben Gvir. We’ve raised our concerns in the strongest possible way. We’re really glad that the Australians are starting now to return home and reunite with their families, but this has been a particularly concerning event.

Teal party speculation ‘not a surprise’ says cabinet minister

Mark Butler says he’s not surprised to see speculation that the community teal independents could form a party – with the political spectrum in “flux” right now.

Speaking to ABC’s News Breakfast this morning, the health minister says (rather unsurprisingly) that it’s “a matter for them”.

There’s speculation this morning that Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall could be leading talks for a grouping of the independents. Independent senator David Pocock yesterday said he was open to a party forming to help counter One Nation.

Butler says:

double quotation markThey’ve [teal independents] obviously made inroads in particular communities in Australia. They’ll make their own assessment about whether that works for them.

There obviously is a lot of flux in the non-Labor parts of politics right now, so to see speculation like that’s perhaps not a surprise.

Good morning, Krishani Dhanji with you for a busy sitting week ahead.

There’s lots on the agenda this week; the government is working on implementing its budget promises, which could see changes to capital gains tax discounts after widespread backlash from industry and investor groups.