PREMIER Jay Weatherill has conceded an embarrassing public spat between two of his MPs is “destructive”, as Labor considers expelling John Gazzola from Caucus.
“Obviously John Gazzola is very disappointed about no longer being president (of the Upper House) and he’s chosen the most destructive way of expressing himself,” Mr Weatherill said today.
“I think it’s pretty sad actually.
“I expect everyone to get on with the job of actually representing the people of South Australia and not indulge themselves in these personal attacks over what is essentially about who gets what job in the Parliament.”
Mr Weatherill said disciplinary measures were “a matter for the party”, but Mr Gazzola’s outburst was “utterly unacceptable”.
“I certainly am not prepared to tolerate it,” he said.
Mr Gazzola used his address-in-reply to Governor Kevin Scarce’s speech at the opening of Parliament yesterday to blast his colleague, who replaced Mr Gazzola as Upper House president in a factional deal.
With Mr Wortley now sitting in the president’s chair, Mr Gazzola branded his factional rival “an embarrassment to the Labor movement”.
“Sir, normally I would congratulate you on becoming the president of the Legislative Council. Given the circumstances and by the mere fact that you became the president through a secret factional deal, it is difficult for me to wish you well,” Mr Gazzola said.
“I have been asked by members to assist you and advise you in your new role. Over time, I have formed my own view that you are a parasite and an embarrassment to the Labor movement. The final advice, given your record as a minister, would be that you should resign as president of the Legislative Council.”
Mr Weatherill today said Mr Gazzola must abide by the judgment of his colleagues.
Senior Labor figures late yesterday began discussing possible sanctions against Mr Gazzola, including possible expulsion from the party.
However, it now appears more likely he may be sanctioned with a temporary expulsion from Labor Caucus. Party rules explicitly ban MPs from acts of disloyalty or public disparagement of colleagues.
From Here
Still at it, I see.
