One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has defended her decision to appear on a podcast with far-right UK figure Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon and who has an extensive criminal record including convictions for fraud and assault.

During the interview, Hanson blamed the end of the White Australia policy for migration issues in Australia and suggested, without evidence, that Muslim Australians were prominent in rorting the National Disability Insurance Scheme. She rejected claims that she wanted to "introduce the White Australia policy," stating in a clip posted to social media, "Never ever have I advocated that, and I don't believe in it as well."

Hanson was filmed during a segment on Seven's Spotlight program recording the podcast and walking with Robinson through Luton, a town in north-west London with a significant Muslim population.

Her comments have drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum, including Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens. Deputy Liberal Leader Jane Hume said she was not bothered by Hanson's overseas trip to the UK and Italy, adding, "Pauline and One Nation can do whatever it is that Pauline and One Nation do. I'm concentrating on what's important to Australians."

Barnaby Joyce, Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the National Party, stated that his party does not support the White Australia policy. He acknowledged that the policy's wind down began under former Prime Minister Harold Holt, calling it "a very good thing," and said, "at the start there was really no issues with it."

In other government news, the Prime Minister announced a $10 million upgrade to 16 birthing suites at the maternity wing of Royal Darwin Hospital. He highlighted a 30 percent budget increase for the Northern Territory, which he said was substantially higher than any other state or territory.

Hanson was also seen at a luxury resort in Taormina, Sicily, with Australian billionaire Gina Rinehart and attended a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show during her overseas trip.

Sources