One Nation senator Pauline Hanson has used her maiden speech to the new Australian Senate to call for an immediate halt to all immigration, warning that Australia is 'in danger of being swamped by Muslims'. The speech, delivered on Wednesday, marks her return to federal politics after first being elected in 1996.
Hanson, who famously warned of being 'swamped by Asians' two decades ago, has now shifted her focus to Islam. She claimed Muslims are incapable of assimilating into Australia's secular democracy, alleging that Islam is a theocracy incompatible with democratic values. 'If you are not prepared to become Australian and give this country your undivided loyalty, obey our laws and respect our country and way of life, then I suggest you go back where you came from,' she said.
Without providing statistical evidence, Hanson asserted that Muslims are overrepresented in organised crime, unemployment, and the prison population. She also called for a ban on building new mosques and Islamic schools until current 'security challenges' pass, and proposed monitoring existing Islamic facilities.
Hanson argued that immigration does not stimulate the economy, contrary to mainstream economic thinking, but instead places strain on public services. She also criticised foreign investment, particularly from China, warning of a foreign takeover. The speech prompted Greens senators to walk out in protest.
