Citizen Bill Shorten has shown the way

Just in time for the Ashes, Bill Shorten finally confirmed he is no longer a Pom. He can barrack for the baggy green unencumbered by pangs of loyalty for the Old Dart. We jest — of course — there was never any doubt about the Opposition Leader’s commitment to his nation. But his reluctance to provide documentary confirmation he had renounced his UK citizenship was unwise. He likened calls for his papers to being guilty until proven innocent, which is a little shrill. The Labor leader did have UK citizenship conferred on him, as he has admitted, and claimed to have renounced it before nominating for parliament. It was not unreasonable, in those circumstances amid the current controversy, to provide the definitive evidence.

Even though he had demanded proof from others, Mr Shorten feigned high dudgeon. When he revealed his letter from the UK Home Office in parliament he insisted on playing the victim, claiming the pressure he faced set a “dangerous” precedent. On the contrary; it is a good precedent. Given the questions over at least seven MPs currently being considered by the High Court, it should be incumbent on any federal politician with potential dual citizenship to reveal their documents in order to reassure parliament and voters. Mr Shorten should demand that his ALP caucus members, such as ACT senator Katy Gallagher and any others under doubt, reveal their papers or agree to go to the High Court. This mess needs sorting once and for all.