‘What the hell is going on?’ Canberra in shambles after parliament punch-up
A senator has been left with a bloodied hand after an ugly fight with a One Nation staffer in the halls of parliament.
Ex-One Nation senator Brian Burston clashed with Pauline Hanson’s Chief of Staff James Ashby outside a dinner at parliament on Wednesday.
The incident occurred just hours after Senator Burston levelled sexual harassment allegations at Ms Hanson, a claim she firmly denies.
The next morning, Senator Hanson found blood smeared on the doors of her parliamentary office.
Despite posting pictures of his bloodied hand, Mr Burston initially denied having any involvement, saying, “Ashby probably did it himself… I’ve got no idea.”
But he’s since backflipped, confessing in parliament, “Whilst I do not recall the incident of blood on the door, I now have come the conclusion that it was myself.”
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“This bloke is a gold medal dope… you idiot,” says Ben Fordham.
“Clearly you remember Brian, you’re the only person with blood on your hands.”
State Political Reporter Michael Pachi is in disbelief.
“What is going on here?” he tells Ben.
Meantime, Mr Ashby has had his parliamentary pass taken off him.
“What the hell is going on in Canberra?” says Ben.
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One Nation leader Pauline Hanson says tensions between Mr Burtston and Mr Ashby have been ongoing.
“[Brian Burston’s] actually been pursuing James now since he’s left the party.”
Ms Hanson has also responded to allegations she made a pass at her former colleague saying she “wouldn’t touch him with a bloody barge pole”.
“In his dreams, my god. I tell you what… I wouldn’t go anywhere near him.
“I’ve got better taste in men than that.”
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The Coalition has also been accused of filibustering during a bizarre session in the House of Representatives.
Scott Morrison used his right as Prime Minister to extend Question Time long enough to avoid a vote on establishing a royal commission into the disability sector.