Here We Go - Again

I've said it before on this blog that Barnett's standard modus operandi is to do what he wants and put pressure on others to fall into line. Well, here he is again, doing just that - telling the Nationals that local government so-called reform in Perth is none of their business.

I always understood that all members of parliament, as well as representing their own electorate and electors, were also responsible for the good governance of the State of Western Australia - just as local councillors, elected to represent a ward (part of a local government), are required by the Local Government Act to act in the best interests of the local government as a whole.

It is, therefore, entirely appropriate for the National Party to take a principled stand on local government in Perth, even without the clearly-stated threat by Barnett and Simpson that regional WA is next for the same treatment.

So, all credit to Terry Redman, Leader of the Nationals in the Parliament, for restating his party's opposition to "anything that results in forced amalgamations" as a matter of principle.

It's heartening to know that some in Parliament still recognise the value and importance of principles.