Richard Marles’ chief of staff disclosed long-term relationship with lobbyist from firm with defence clients

Exclusive: News of relationship comes amid pressure to toughen regulation of political lobbying to ensure trust in democracyGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe defence minister’s chief of staff has disclosed and managed a long-term de facto relationship with a lobbyist who works for a small firm representing several defence clients, including a subsidiary of an Israeli government-owned weapons manufacturer. Confirmation of the relationship comes as the Centre for Public Integrity calls on the federal government to publish monthly disclosures of all interactions between lobbyists and senior staff advising ministers, to improve trust in democracy and increase transparency.Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email Continue reading...

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