‘The Chief Minister does not have the right to pick and choose’: Lambley says Gunner should be investigated for blocking media outlet

A move to have Chief Minister Michael Gunner investigated for blocking a small NT digital news outlet and thus obstructing the freedom of the press has been shut down before debate began.

A MOVE to have Chief Minister Michael Gunner investigated for blocking a small NT digital news outlet and thus obstructing the freedom of the press has been shut down before debate began.

Araluen MLA Robyn Lambley, in parliament, moved that Mr Gunner be investigated by the committee that looks into bad behaviour over his treatment of the NT Independent.

Ms Lambley alleged Mr Gunner has breach the Legislative Assembly code of conduct and ethical standards act by banning the NT Independent, whose editor is Christopher Walsh, from government press conferences.

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The media outlet, bankrolled by businessman Owen Pike, is also left in the dry when they request information from government departments.

But before Ms Lambley could finish stating her case Leader of Government Business Natasha Fyles moved that the issue be put to a vote immediately.

The government won the vote 13 to 10, with Goyder MLA Kezia Purick abstaining from the vote.

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Blain MLA Mark Turner has been absent from parliament since five minutes after 10am on Thursday.

“The NT Independent should be provided the same rights as all other media in the NT,” Ms Lambley said.

“The Chief Minister does not have the right to pick and choose what media the NT Government deals with. Today will be a true test of democracy in the NT parliament.”