Pollies bend spending rules

POLITICIANS who spent up big during an election campaign are not doing anything illegal or breaking any rules.

But there is a moral and ethical aspect to consider.

A NewsRegional analysis of all 280 MP and senator expense claims lodged after the 2016 election found sitting politicians used a taxpayerfunded printing and communications fund to increase their re-election chances.

They spent an extra $8.7 million to bolster their 2016 election chances on top of the $19 million claimed at the two previous elections. The funding was not available to those challenging the sitting politicians.

Kennedy MP Bob Katter was Queensland’s biggest spender, claiming $98,095 during the campaign and $16,588 during the rest of 2016.

Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch claimed $34,207, about 44 per cent of his entire 2016 claim.

Experts are calling for restrictions to stop politicians using taxpayer money to advertise themselves, an advantage challengers do not have.

Highly regarded former Liberal leader John Hewson describes it as “an abuse” and is calling for the allowance to be capped.

Surprisingly Mr Katter, who is never short of expressing an opinion, would not answer questions about his claims.

Mr Entsch’s office did respond saying that it was not prohibited and he had to meet guidelines.

Both the relevant federal representatives State Special Minister Mathias Cormann and opposition spokesman Don Farrell were also silent and would not answer questions about the issue.

It’s a case of not wanting to shoot the goose who laid the golden egg. Nick Dalton Deputy editor