Media Release

In commenting upon the Member for Dawson George Christensen quitting as National Party Whip, KAP Leader Mr Katter said, “It is said that there are no more conviction politicians. Christensen proves that there is at least one.”

“He has crossed the floor on the issue of Ethanol. It’d be nearly 20 years since anyone crossed the floor. George was so scared when he did, he couldn’t speak properly -- more power to him.

“He’s also courageously committed to crossing the floor on the Bank Royal Commission, where as other prominent Members said they’ll vote for a Royal Commission -- and now they won’t. They’ve dropped it.

“Apart from Sir Joh Bjelke Petersen and my colleague the late Peter Andren the Independent and Ted Mack, I don’t know of anyone in recent Australian history who has consciously walked away from a treasure chest – in Christensen’s case many thousands of dollars per year. The other three refused to take their superannuation because they thought it was not the right thing to do.

“So he joins a very small band of heroes

“We are very supportive of George Christensen. We have neighbouring electorates and are good friends. Whatever decisions he takes in the future I’m sure they will be based on his moral convictions.

“And if he wants to do something that may make him a martyr, then let him know that martyrs provide much needed inspiration for all of we lesser mortals.”