MODERN history suggests that democracy aligns, and progresses, with the expansion of civil liberties, including access by ordinary citizens to government information. But the new media reform bills tabled in [Australian] federal Parliament last week … [Read more...] about Media Rules Prohibit Dissent
Legislation
Conflict of Interest for Chairman of UK Environment Committee
Tim Yeo used his casting vote as chairman of the all-party Environmental Audit Select Committee to push through a report, published last week, which backed the decision by Alistair Darling, the Chancellor, that new, higher rates of vehicle excise … [Read more...] about Conflict of Interest for Chairman of UK Environment Committee
Panelists Named for Iconic Extinction
Queensland's former Douglas Shire is no more. Under amalgamation, the new Cairns Regional Shire extends where Douglas once existed, but not so far that its constituents remain entitled to elect representatives for the genuine care for development. … [Read more...] about Panelists Named for Iconic Extinction
Queensland’s Proposed Iconic Legislation (part II)
Contrary to the intent of the outgoing Douglas Shire Council’s resolution to not allow Council staff to participate in the process of preparing submissions to Queensland’s Draft Iconic legislation, the Queensland Department of Infrastructure and … [Read more...] about Queensland’s Proposed Iconic Legislation (part II)
Monaro Farmer Seeks Compensation for Carbon Sink
In the Federal Court of Australia in Sydney on Thursday 20th December 2007, the Court rejected the Commonwealth's application to strike out a Statement of Claim entered into the Court by Monaro District farmer Mr Peter Spencer. Mr Spencer has … [Read more...] about Monaro Farmer Seeks Compensation for Carbon Sink
Queensland’s Proposed Iconic Legislation
In August 2007, the Queensland Government introduced legislation to bring about forced amalgamations of many local governments in Queensland. Extensive argument was responded to by Premier Beattie, who proposed the introduction of ‘iconic … [Read more...] about Queensland’s Proposed Iconic Legislation