Australian ex-minister launches crowd-funded inquiry into Aukus submarine deal
Summary
A former Australian environment minister, Peter Garrett, is leading a crowd-funded independent inquiry into Australia’s A$368 billion Aukus submarine deal with the USA. The inquiry will review the purchase of three second-hand US nuclear-powered submarines and examine the deal’s impact on Australia’s security, regional relations, and transparency.Key Facts
- Australia plans to buy three used Virginia-class nuclear submarines from the United States.
- The Aukus deal is valued at about A$368 billion (around $239 billion).
- Peter Garrett, former Australian environment minister and musician, will lead the inquiry.
- The inquiry includes five commissioners, such as Admiral Chris Barrie and former Western Australia premier Carmen Lawrence.
- Public hearings will be held, and the report is due in October after five months.
- The review aims to assess whether the submarines improve Australia's safety and their effect on regional peace and diplomacy, especially with China.
- The deal allows the US and UK to station nuclear submarines in Perth starting in 2027.
- The Aukus pact faces concerns about nuclear waste storage, sovereignty, and diplomatic consequences.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.