Thread by @strangerous10

Senator Lidia Thorpe accuses Liberal Senator David Van of having been “harassed & sexually assaulted” by him & that the “PM had to remove him from his office” after Van was speaking on “Safe & Respectful Workplaces” in defence of Linda Reynolds. #Senate

If I heard right, the alleged incident is reported to be from 2021, so under Morrison.

I don’t know anything about this. I think it’s taken most, or everyone by surprise.
I don’t always agree with Lidia, but by golly do #IStandWithLidia here 😔🩷

Scummo’s spokesperson has been questioned (by The Guardian) & says that the former PM has advised that he has “no recollection” of the allegation made by Lidia Thorpe today.

Like anyone’s going to believe anything he says anyway. And no recollection is not a denial.

Some have questioned why Thorpe hasn’t just gone to the police, or reported this elsewhere.

Have you seen what’s been happening to Brittany Higgins?

Van’s hypocritical comments, Clearly triggering, would have shaken Thorpe.

There’s no right or wrong when speaking out.

On Thorpe, she has withdrawn her accusation but this is her words

“The deputy president referred the matter to you [Senate President Sue Lines] & you requested me to withdraw those remarks. In order to comply with the parliamentary standing orders, I withdraw those remarks”

And she will update the Senate on matters tomorrow (whether it will be investigated/ referred anywhere perhaps)

So this is not a withdrawal on any basis that it’s untrue.