We already know their athletes are bold. They are hosting a global atheist conference next year.
And now, we can add their politicians to the list of Reasons Australia is Better than Your Country.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says he has concerns about the Church of Scientology but wants to see what material independent senator Nick Xenophon has before committing to a parliamentary inquiry.
Senator Xenophon told Parliament today there was criminal activity within the church and has called for a Senate inquiry into Scientology’s tax exempt status.
The Prime Minister throwing his voice to the mix is interesting enough, but take a look at the speech Xenophon made in the Senate yesterday.
It’s blunt, powerful, and another major blow to the Cult of Scientology:
What we are seeing is a worldwide pattern of abuse and criminality.
On the body of evidence this is not happening by accident; it is happening by design. Scientology is not a religious organisation. It is a criminal organisation that hides behind its so-called religious beliefs.
What you believe does not mean you are not accountable for how you behave.
…
I also believe the activities of this organisation should be scrutinised by parliament because Australian taxpayers are, in effect, supporting Scientology through its tax-exempt status. I say to all Australians: as you fill in your tax return next July or August, ask yourself how you feel knowing that you are paying tax and yet this criminal organisation is not…
…
Ultimately, this is not about religious freedom. In Australia there are no limits on what you can believe. But there are limits on how you can behave. It is called the law, and no one is above it.
That’s a profile of courage for you.
Now when are some of these politicians also going to go after the Catholic Church for covering up their criminal past (and present)?
(Thanks to Julie for the link!)
