Lobbyists Wary Of New Rules

The Age

Thursday April 17, 2008

Katharine Murphy

A FEDERAL Government move to expose the lobbying industry to greater public scrutiny has generated a backlash, with lobbying firms seeking changes.

The Age believes that big firms have raised concerns about a system proposed by cabinet secretary John Faulkner.

Some want formal appeal rights if lobbyists are denied registration under the new code.

The system gives Senator Faulkner sweeping powers to block the registration of particular lobbyists, which would block access to ministers. It does not specify any avenue of appeal.

Some firms are also concerned that a register would not catch professionals effectively engaged in lobbying on behalf of corporate clients, particularly lawyers and accountants.

The new system is directed at lobbying firms representing third-party clients but does not cover other quasi-lobbying activities by special interest groups, the executives of big corporations or their legal or financial advisers.

Many in the industry have lodged submissions on the proposal. -- KATHARINE MURPHY

© 2008 The Age

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