There has been a hugely negative response to his speech in the hours since it was made.
Queensland senator Fraser Anning has called for a direct vote of all the members of an electorate, declaring that a “final solution to the immigration problem” is needed for the good of Australia.
His remarks have brought immediate condemnation from others in Australian government, primarily as Anning used his first speech to the Senate on Tuesday to discuss his sadness about the demise of the nation’s “predominantly European identity” from the 1950s and ’60s.
"One immigrant group here and in other western nations that has consistently shown themselves to be the least able to assimilate and integrate is Muslims.”
Senator Fraser Anning is being condemned this morning after calling for a ban on Muslim migration. #9Today pic.twitter.com/vsCB5R82vF— The Today Show (@TheTodayShow) August 14, 2018
Anning also called for a complete ban of Muslim immigration, stating his reasoning as a perceived link between Muslim communities and terrorist activity.
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the senator is convinced that this had “allowed the cultural conquest of our nation”, warning that it will be bringing about “an insidious silent revolution”.
In light of the reaction to his speech, Anning has maintained his hardline and refused to apologise for his comments.
Opposition leader Bill Shorten responded to Anning’s speech:
“Fraser Anning’s comments on immigration do not reflect the views of the Government nor the views of fair-minded Australians. We will always maintain a non-discriminatory immigration program.”
To which Australian Prime Minister Alan Turnbull responded:
“Well said Alan. Australia is the most successful multicultural society in the world built on a foundation of mutual respect. We reject and condemn racism in any form.”
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