ACT Liberal leader Elizabeth Lee forced to apologise after she was caught on camera sticking up her middle finger at journalist
Elizabeth Lee has been forced to apologise after sticking up her middle finger at a journalist following a tense press conference | WATCH
ACT Liberal leader Elizabeth Lee has been forced to apologise after she was caught on camera sticking up her middle finger at a journalist after he had turned his back following a tense press conference.
The ACT election will be held on Saturday.
“I engaged in poor behaviour that was unprofessional, and I apologise”, she said afterwards.
“I have history with this journalist. I respect the work that journalists do, including asking the tough questions, and I think that I have demonstrated during this term that I’m willing to step up and answer tough questions.”
Ms Lee and RiotACT reporter Ian Bushnell had a tense exchange at a press conference on Wednesday.
Mr Bushnell questioned Ms Lee about the timing of costs and details on election pledges.
“Isn’t it a bit late in the day to be having these discussions?” Mr Bushnell asked.
“Isn’t it late in the day for [ACT Chief Minister] Andrew Barr to still have not submitted costings for his policies?” She responded.
“We’re talking about your policies,” Mr Bushnell said.
“No, you can’t throw things at the opposition and expect to have no comeback when the fact is, this is a treasurer who’s been in charge of the ACT treasury – are you finished?”
“I just want you to answer the question.”
“Are you finished?”
“Answer the question.”
“Are you finished or not? I will answer the question in my own way, Ian, you don’t get to dictate how I answer the question.”
After this, footage shows the reporters turning away as the press conference ended, and Ms Lee walks to the side and briefly flashes up her middle finger aimed at Mr Bushnell’s back.
Ms Lee and the ACT Liberals are seeking to end Labor’s 23 continuous years in power in the ACT.
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