Christian values ignored by politicians

Watching the rage and fierceness of the speech Prime Minister Scott Morrison gave last week, declaring he would use anything to stop the Urgent Medical Treatment Bill from being successful, I kept wondering how can this possibly align with Christian values, particularly the golden rule “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”? (Editorial, “The man who wasn’t there”, December 1–7). Many of the men and families on both Manus and Nauru have been diagnosed with extreme mental health issues. To deny them the medical treatment they are unable to access where they are, and which in fact is causing the terrible desperation often leading to suicidal behaviour, seems utterly inhumane and cruel. How many people have to die for compassion and humanity to prevail? Mr Morrison can go home to the comfort of his family, knowing if any family member became sick there would be medical treatment available as needed. That is exactly what I would want for these people languishing on Manus and Nauru.

– Joan Lynn, Williamstown, Vic