Abbott Downplays Burqa Stunt Backlash, Says Islamophobia Not an Issue in Australia

Abbott Downplays Burqa Stunt Backlash, Says Islamophobia Not an Issue in Australia

Former Liberal Prime Minister Tony Abbott says Australia does not have a problem with Islamophobia, and says there’s no need for outrage over Pauline Hanson’s recent burqa stunt. Abbott, who served as Australia’s leader from 2013-15, was speaking at a launch for his book, Australia: A History, in Brisbane on Nov. 25, where he referenced the One Nation leader. Hanson wore the Islamic face covering after attempting to put forward a bill to ban the…