Photo: Getty ImagesAustralian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's approval rating fell to the lowest level in a year as his conservative government struggles to contain a backlash over allegations of mistreatment of female MPs and staff, a poll showed on Monday. A Newspoll conducted for The Australian newspaper showed Morrison's public support dropped seven points in two weeks to 55%, the first time since last March that his approval ratings have not been in the 60s. Morrison's government also trails opposition Labor on a two-party preferred basis, where votes for minor parties are distributed, by 52-48. The Australian parliament has been engulfed by allegations of sexual abuse, discrimination against women and misconduct. Tens of thousands of women protested earlier this month outside parliament and around Australia calling for gender equality and justice for victims of sexual assault.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 29, 2021 00:11 UTC