Federal crossbench MPs will introduce legislation establishing a national anti-corruption body in coming weeks, placing pressure on the federal government to implement greater oversight of parliamentarians, lobbyists and public servants. Independent MP Cathy McGowan said a 200-page draft bill was being prepared in consultation with governance expert AJ Brown, to be finalised by the time parliament resumes later this month. Incoming member for Wentworth, Kerryn Phelps, promised on Wednesday to push for “a National Integrity Commission”, increasing the likelihood of a tied vote if the bill comes to the House of Representatives. Former Supreme Court of Victoria justice David Harper added his voice to the push, writing in Fairfax newspapers on Wednesday that “the lack of a federal anti-corruption agency remains a reason why we have never come close to being corruption-free” …
