Questions linger on LNP candidate Bree Watson’s abortion views

Mounting questions for Bundaberg’s LNP candidate about her abortion stand have prompted a party spokeswoman to speak up as controversy continues to surround the party’s stance on the subject.

LNP candidate, Bree Watson and MP Tom Smith at the Bundaberg debate.

State LNP candidate Bree Watson’s position on abortion continues to remain a mystery, with an LNP spokeswoman the latest to step in and rule out any changes from the party itself in response to questions put to the Bundaberg candidate.

Ms Watson’s views on the controversial topic have been under the microscope, in the lead-up to the October 26 election, amid wider questions about the party’s stance on abortion after claims the laws may be overturned.

At a state election debate on Tuesday night, Bundaberg MP Tom Smith called on Ms Watson to share her personal opinions on women’s health and abortion after Scenic Rim MP Jon Krause told a candidates’ forum “we need to ensure that there are enough people in the parliament to be able to repeal those laws or to make significant amendments”.

In response to follow up questions sent to Ms Watson Wednesday morning, an LNP spokeswoman replied saying any changes to the laws were off the table.

“It’s not part of our plan, the LNP has ruled it out,” the spokeswoman said.

Bundaberg MP, Tom Smith at the Bundaberg debate.

“Labor’s desperate scare campaign is an attempt to distract from their failures across youth crime, health, housing, and cost of living.”

Mr Smith raised the question during the debate as he fights to retain the seat he claimed by a slim nine vote margin in 2020.

The tight race has prompted both Opposition leader David Crisafulli and Premier Steven Miles to visit Bundaberg since the start of the campaign.

Mr Crisafulli, campaigning in Cairns Wednesday, doubled down on the subject saying there would be “no change” to the ability of women to access abortions in Queensland should the LNP take government.

However, he cannot control what laws crossbenchers put forward nor how his MPs vote unless he chooses to break with convention and deny his party room a conscience vote on matters of life or death.

LNP candidate, Bree Watson at the Bundaberg debate.

Mr Smith on Wednesday again questioned Ms Watson’s ability to lead saying if she couldn't answer the tough questions, how could she make tough decisions.

“Does Bree Watson support women and girls being jailed for making their own health choices?” he said.
“The LNP candidate didn’t seem to need a spokesperson at the forum last night, so why do they all of a sudden need one now?”

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Originally published as Questions linger on LNP candidate Bree Watson’s abortion views