Emotional Brandis savages Hanson for wearing burka in Senate

One Nation senator Pauline Hanson causes controversy by wearing a burka to Question Time in the Upper House.

An emotional Attorney-General George Brandis has been given a standing ovation in Parliament for slamming One Nation leader Pauline Hanson’s decision to wear a burka into the Senate.

Key points:

• Pauline Hanson said she wore burka in attempt to highlight security risks
• George Brandis criticises Senator Hanson for attacking the Islamic faith
• Labor and Greens senators gave Senator Brandis a standing ovation for his response

Senator Hanson caused audible gasps of shock when she wore the full Islamic dress into Question Time, calling for the dress to be banned in Australia.

Photo: Senator Brandis ruled out banning the burka. (ABC News: Jed Cooper)

Liberal senator from Tasmania Jonathon Duniam was heard saying, “oh, what on earth”, before Senate president Stephen Parry said Senator Hanson had been identified before entering the chamber.

Senator Brandis was close to tears while criticising Senator Hanson for attacking the Islamic faith and undermining relations with the Muslim community.

“To ridicule that community, to drive it into a corner, to mock its religious garments is an appalling thing to do,” he said.

“I would ask you to reflect on that.”

Senator Brandis ruled out banning the burka.

Source: Pauline Hanson wears burka to Question Time in the Senate, slammed by George Brandis – ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)