Premier Barry O’Farrell must show leadership and unambiguously disavow outrageous statements by his Federal Liberal counterpart Teresa Gambaro in relation to migrant hygiene, Deputy Leader of the Opposition Linda Burney said today.

“Like a great many Australians, I was shocked and appalled to read Ms Gambaro’s comments in relation to migrant hygiene today. I condemn these comments unreservedly and call on Premier Barry O’Farrell to do the same.

“Teresa Gambaro seems to want to be the successor to Pauline Hanson.

“To accuse migrants of not wearing deodorant on public transport is just outrageously insulting for someone who aspires to a position of national leadership. 

“To demand that migrants enlist for some sort of health and hygiene classes is completely beyond the pale.

“As for accusing migrants of not knowing how to queue up correctly – the Liberal Party needs to do some soul-searching as to whether comments like this from a senior spokesperson contribute positively to our multicultural society. 

“Is this what the modern Liberal Party has come to – taking cheap shots at migrants and trying to divide people and whip up prejudice?

“The Premier must disassociate himself from this ugly politics and condemn Ms Gambaro’s disgraceful remarks.

“As the Member for Canterbury, I represent one of the most diverse electorates in NSW.

“This State was built on the back of migrants. Tens of thousands of them are watching and waiting today in the hope they have a Premier who will stand up for them.  

“NSW is a shining example of multiculturalism. New arrivals to our shores need to be welcomed with open arms, not tarred with this kind of rubbish by the Liberal Party.”