Dutton Faces Scrutiny Over 2009 Bank Share Purchases

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is under scrutiny for purchasing shares in major Australian banks shortly before a government bailout announcement in 2009. Dutton, who was an opposition frontbencher at the time, denies having prior knowledge of the bailout, asserting that his investments were based on perceived market opportunities. Labor ministers, including Murray Watt, question the timing of Dutton's trades, suggesting access to privileged information might have influenced his decisions. Dutton maintains that all his financial activities have been conducted with integrity and transparency, emphasizing his compliance with parliamentary disclosure requirements. He has refused to release shadow cabinet minutes that could potentially clarify whether the bailout was discussed. The controversy continues as Labor challenges Dutton's explanations, urging further disclosure about his investment decisions.