Pauline Hanson warns George Christensen not to jump ship and destabilise government

FORMER nationals whip George Christensen hasn’t joined another party yet, but speculation it will be One Nation might be a little premature.

PAULINE Hanson is warning outspoken Nationals MP George Christensen he shouldn’t jump ship and destabilise the government.

“I don’t believe the people want that and they would not want it from me,” the One Nation leader told ABC TV on Sunday.

George Christensen quit as nationals whip early in March. Picture: AAP/Mick Tsikas

Mr Christensen has quit his role as chief Nationals whip, saying he couldn’t be the party’s enforcer of discipline and keep speaking his mind in ways that often criticise government policy.

However, he has repeatedly said he’s loyal to the Nationals, despite speculation he could join One Nation or Liberal deserter Cory Bernardi who has set up his own conservative party.

Senator Hanson said she didn’t believe politicians should jump ship.

But his next move is in doubt — but he might have a home at One Nation.

“If you are elected to parliament with a party, then that’s what the people voted you in and you should stay with that party,” she said. Her advice to Mr Christensen was “stay where you are, because if he jumps ship, it’s going to destabilise the government”.

But she would understand if he eventually decided the Nationals weren’t properly representing his north Queensland electorate and wanted to leave.

“If he wants to come across to One Nation, I’m not going to say no but I am not encouraging him.” she said.

Christensen said he found it difficult managing his role and outspoken views at the same time. Picture: Kym Smith

Hanson also said the cut in Sunday penalty rates for retail, hospitality and fast-food workers will help small business owners.

The One Nation leader accused Labor and the unions of hypocrisy in the matter, saying in her fish and chip shop she had to pay $34 an hour in wages where the McDonald’s down the road only paid $26.

“Where is the union jumping up and down about that with the battlers?” Senator Hanson said.