Senator launches extraordinary attack on Police Minister

A Liberal senator has made an extraordinary attack against Police Minister Rob Johnson in Federal Parliament, declaring he has no confidence in him.

Member for Canning Don Randall told Parliament Mr Johnson, also a Liberal, had been incompetent during the Perth Hills bushfire, blaming “everyone else” and taking no responsibility while others were sacked.

He said Mr Johnson had “ditched” his election pledges to be tough on law and order and was now so “weak and ineffective” that Police Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan had been given a free rein, including being a “rockstar” in the media.

Mr Randall claimed the Commissioner got away with showing no respect for authority to the minister because Mr Johnson failed to give direction in both policy and policing areas.

He complained the minister had refused to provide adequate resources for policing in his electorate to help combat crime and antisocial behaviour despite ongoing requests.

Mr Randall said a strong minister would be able to better resource his electorate.

He said police had unfairly targeted motorists leaving Canning Highway onto the Kwinana Freeway, where the speed limit changed and was confusing for drivers.

Mr Randall said it was unconscionable conduct and opportunistic but Mr Johnson had abrogated any responsibility and leadership on the issue.

Mr Randall claimed 68-year-old Mr Johnson was only in Parliament because he no other interests and therefore no reason to retire.

Mr Johnson has been contacted for comment.

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