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Politicians Under Fire for Airline Perks Amid Transparency Concerns

Calls for reform grow as MPs face scrutiny over Qantas lounge memberships and flight upgrades.

Overview

  • Western Australia Premier Roger Cook admitted failing to disclose his Qantas Chairman's Lounge membership, highlighting broader issues of transparency among politicians.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has denied allegations of soliciting Qantas flight upgrades but acknowledged receiving them over the years, sparking debate on potential conflicts of interest.
  • Independent MPs Allegra Spender and Helen Haines have canceled their airline lounge memberships, urging their peers to reject similar perks to restore public trust.
  • A Guardian Essential poll reveals a majority of Australians disapprove of politicians accepting free tickets, upgrades, and VIP lounge access, reflecting public demand for greater accountability.
  • There are increasing calls for a review of the Ministerial Code of Conduct and more transparency in political dealings, as the controversy over airline perks continues to unfold.