Independent NSW MP Mark Latham has again denied breaking any laws or breaching legislative standing orders in a lengthy public statement addressing allegations of inappropriate behaviour in state parliament.
The former federal Labor leader has faced mounting political pressure over media reports alleging emotional and physical abuse of his ex-partner Nathalie Matthews, and that he allegedly participated in a consensual sex video in his office.
Ms Matthews is pursuing a civil court apprehended violence order against Mr Latham, with media reports she is accusing him of a “sustained pattern” of abuse and pressuring her into “degrading” sex acts.
Nathalie Matthews is pursuing a civil court apprehended violence order against Mr Latham. (Instagram: Mark Latham)
Mr Latham has emphatically rejected those claims as “nonsense”.
In a lengthy address to the media in south-west Sydney on Saturday, Mr Latham refused to confirm or deny whether he had sex in his office.
But Mr Latham insisted he had no knowledge of any video, following reports by the Sydney Morning Herald.
“I have checked my devices and I can’t find any material [Ms Matthews] has filmed involving me, and that includes New South Wales Parliament House,” Mr Latham said.
“If she has recorded these videos, it is without my knowledge and consent and there’s a question about the legality of such a practice.”Family and domestic violence support services:NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 656 4631800 Respect National Helpline on 1800 737 732Lifeline on 131 114Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491Mensline on 1300 789 978Full Stop Australia on 1800 385 578Emergency services on triple-0 if you need immediate care
But Mr Latham admitted he had made a “mistake” following media reports he allegedly took photos of female colleagues speaking in parliament and made disparaging comments about them in private messages.
“I have apologised to both Susan Carter and Abigail Boyd and they’ve accepted my apology for which I thank them both sincerely,” he said.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has this week suggested Mr Latham be investigated by the privileges committee following the allegations about his behaviour in parliament.
But Mr Latham has again insisted he broke no standing orders in parliament and he has not been notified of any complaint about his conduct.
Mr Latham accused the media of “reckless and irresponsible journalism”. (ABC News: Gavin Coote)
He also directed his attacks at the media, accusing it of “reckless and irresponsible journalism”.
In a statement on Saturday, Ms Matthews said she was “aware” of the comments made by Mr Latham and would not make any further remarks.
“I request the privacy that I deserve whilst I go through this stressful period,” she said.
“The full story will come out in due course in the proper manner.”