Independent New South Wales MP Mark Latham has publicly denied any illegal activity or violations of parliamentary rules, responding to recent allegations of misconduct in a detailed statement.
The former federal Labor leader is under increasing political and media pressure following reports that he emotionally and physically abused his former partner, Nathalie Matthews. It has also been alleged that he appeared in a consensual sex video filmed in his parliamentary office.
Ms Matthews is seeking a civil apprehended violence order against Mr Latham. Media reports claim she has accused him of a “sustained pattern” of abuse and coercion into “degrading” sexual acts.
Mr Latham has strongly denied the accusations, calling them “nonsense.”
Speaking to reporters in Sydney’s south-west on Saturday, he declined to confirm or deny whether sexual activity occurred in his office. However, he maintained he was unaware of any such video, despite reports from the Sydney Morning Herald.
“I’ve checked my devices and found no footage involving me that she may have recorded, including at the NSW Parliament House,” Latham stated.
“If such videos exist, they were made without my knowledge or consent, raising serious legal concerns.”
Support Services for Domestic and Family Violence:
- NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463
- 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491
- Mensline: 1300 789 978
- Full Stop Australia: 1800 385 578
- Call Triple Zero (000) for immediate assistance
Mr Latham did acknowledge making a “mistake” in relation to reports that he photographed female colleagues during parliamentary sessions and made offensive remarks about them in private messages.
“I’ve personally apologised to both Susan Carter and Abigail Boyd, and I’m grateful they accepted,” he said.
In response to the allegations, NSW Premier Chris Minns has proposed a potential investigation by the parliamentary privileges committee into Mr Latham’s behaviour. However, Latham continues to deny breaking any parliamentary rules and says he has received no formal complaints.
Latham also criticized the media, accusing journalists of engaging in “reckless and irresponsible” reporting.
In a separate statement, Ms Matthews acknowledged Mr Latham’s comments but said she would not be providing further comment at this time.
“I ask for privacy as I navigate this difficult situation,” she said.
“The truth will emerge in the appropriate forum and at the right time.”
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