Western Australia's political landscape is facing renewed scrutiny following controversial remarks made by Liberal candidate Thomas Brough regarding the state's abortion laws. Brough, an emergency room doctor and local councillor, has publicly called for a reassessment of these laws, igniting debates within the party and the broader community.
During a press conference to announce a $5 million investment towards the expansion of the Albany Health Campus, Brough stated, "Babies born alive should not be left to die." This assertion drew immediate backlash from both political opponents and members of his own party.
Despite Brough's call to review the abortion legislation, WA Liberal leader Libby Mettam has firmly ruled out any such review, asserting that it is not part of their party's agenda. Mettam has previously supported recent reforms to WA's abortion laws in parliament, emphasizing the Liberal Party's stance on this sensitive issue.
The situation has been further complicated by a recent Senate inquiry that examined the implications of potential legislative changes surrounding abortion services. The inquiry concluded there was no evidence to support the need for a new bill, stating that it could negatively impact the "availability of pregnancy support and termination services." Notably, the inquiry made no recommendations for changes to existing laws.
Brough's comments, however, have not only led to political fallout but have also raised questions about his professional conduct. He has been referred to the State Administrative Tribunal for alleged professional misconduct concerning previous remarks that falsely linked the LGBTQIA+ community with pedophilia. Following these allegations, Brough issued a limited apology and was mandated to undergo workplace training.
WA Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has been vocal in her criticism of Brough's statements, labeling them as "dangerous" misinformation. She has called upon Mettam to take a stronger stance against Brough's comments, stating, "If these views are so out of step with the Liberal Party and it's not her intent as leader to go down the path [of reviewing abortion laws], she should ask this candidate to resign."
In response to the controversy, Mettam reiterated her position, declaring, "Reviewing WA's abortion laws is not part of our plan," and emphasized that the Liberal Party treats abortion as a conscience vote. She defended Brough's right to hold his opinions but clarified that they do not align with the party's direction.
Alison Creagh, a prominent voice in the discourse surrounding abortion policies, commented on the rarity of late-term abortions. "It's really only in very unique and difficult circumstances that they would be done beyond that time," she explained. Creagh added that even in these exceptional cases, it is "exceptionally rare" for a baby to be born alive after 23 weeks.
The Liberal Party's handling of this incident has raised concerns about its internal cohesion and its ability to present a unified front on contentious social issues. As Brough's remarks continue to reverberate through political circles, the party faces pressure to clarify its position on abortion and address the implications of Brough's statements.
Brough has defended his comments as a reflection of his personal beliefs while maintaining that he is willing to let the investigation into his alleged misconduct proceed without interference. "It's completely inappropriate that this is in the public forum. This is a confidential matter, and I'm totally happy to let the process occur," he stated.
Political analysts suggest that this situation may serve as a pivotal moment for the WA Liberals as they navigate public opinion on sensitive issues such as abortion and LGBTQIA+ rights. Roger Cook, a member of the opposing party, criticized the state of the Liberal candidates, labeling them as "strange," and suggesting that their views may not resonate with the electorate.
