Scott Morrison has endorsed the prospect of giving more powers to the World Health Organisation to “go in and deal with pandemic situations” at a press conference.
Morrison hints at more powers for world health bodies.
AUSTRALIAN ENDORSEMENT
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has endorsed the prospect of more powers for international health bodies such the World Health Organisation (WHO) at a press conference in Darwin today.
One reporter raised an upcoming WHO meeting on 22 May, and the potential for a ‘pandemic treaty’ to be signed during these discussions. When Morrison was asked if he would sign the treaty, he was supportive.
“We have said right from the outset.. the WHO should have those powers and those authorities to be able to go and deal with pandemic situations.”
Morrison continued: “The idea that countries can just say ‘no, you can’t come in and have a look at a pandemic that’s about to break out’ .. I think it’s only sensible that this an area of international co-operation that is very very important”.
“We will look at the text of all that, but we have been one of the countries that have been positive about these sorts of changes”
The Prime Minister said they will still ‘look at the details’, “as you always should”, but is very supportive of the idea that unelected world bodies can come into your country and ‘assist’ with plans.
Just like when the federal government signed a bill to allow foreign and private troops on Australian soil.
All for our ‘safety and security’.
The comments come ahead of the conveniently timed meeting of the next World Health Assembly, which will happen just as our elections are in the midst of happening.