Independent MP pushes for drug and alcohol tests in parliament

Independent MP Zali Steggall has pushed for drug and alcohol tests for members of parliament following an incident with the Nationals Deputy Leader last week during a Senate inquiry. “I do think the government is to look at this question and actually all leaders of all major parties and really consider random alcohol and drug testing in the Commonwealth workplace,” she told Sky News Australia. “I think we really have to stop and consider as members of parliament the incredibly privileged role we have but also the example we need to set for our staff and advisors but also for others. “The incident from last week and now this week shows that there is bigger problem than what maybe is acknowledged.” Ms Steggall’s comments follow the shock admission of the Nationals Deputy Leader Perin Davey saying she drank alcohol before a Senate hearing. However, Ms Davey claims she only had two glasses of red wine at a staff function beforehand and was not drunk in parliament.