The ayes have it - ALP conference flashpoints fizz out - Michael West
michaelwest.com.au
The first day of ALP’s conference in Brisbane was a routine affair, with every motion expected to draw controversy passed without challenge.

The foreign policy and defence session and all attention is on whether AUKUS debates will be publicly aired or smoothed over in backrooms beforehand.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his allies are reportedly seeking to appease elements of the party hostile to the security pact.

On Monday, partly leaders broadcast the idea of an AUKUS a ‘statement in detail’ on AUKUS, which would ensure the nuclear submarines promised under the deal would be constructed in Australia by a well-paid unionised workforce.

Does Australia really have a choice?

Since when did we stand up to the demands of the UK or the USA? Will we be seeing another Gough Whitlam, a Kevin Rudd - quickly moved as side at the first sign of descent - or the stock standard: a revolving door of Bob Hawk's and slimy, weak polli's?