THE Young Nationals has suspended processing new memberships following revelations the party had been infiltrated by “alt-right” and “far-right” individuals.
Following consultation with NSW Nationals state chairman, Tamworth farmer Bede Burke, the Young Nats “temporarily suspended processing new memberships” and launched an urgent internal investigation.
In a written statement, The National Party said it rejected all forms of racism and hatred.
“Neither have any place within the NSW Nationals and our Party will not become a battleground for forces that have no history, allegiance or understanding of our Party,” the statement read.
“We are and always have been a Party representing the people of rural and regional areas.
“The rise of splinter groups that threaten to undermine our democracy are taken very seriously by the NSW Nationals and we declare that such radical ideologies have no place within our Party.
“We are seeking additional information from media and other sources to assist the investigation and we will act swiftly if any member is found to belong to these extremist groups.”
Mr Burke and Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson were contacted for comment.