Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull accused an ABC host of having 'lost the plot' and refused to back down when asked if the government's reaction to Q&A allowing Zaky Mallah in their live audience was 'exaggerated'. Insiders host Barrie Cassidy asked Mr Turmbull how Mr Mallah's appearance differed from him being in any other public space, prompting a furious response from the federal minister. 'Are you pulling my leg? After the Martin Place siege, you're saying to me that there is no security issue with putting Zaky Mallah in a live audience?' an incredulous Mr Turnbull retaliated. In response, Cassidy repeated: 'Well what's the difference between that and Zaky Mallah walking into a shopping centre?'Communications Minister slammed ABC Insiders host Barrie CassidyCassidy suggested Zaky Mallah's appearance on Q&A was no different to his presence in any other public spaceAn incredulous Mr Turnbull likened the dangers to the Martin Place siegeHe assured he would not interfere with the ABC's editorial independence
Mr _ was the first person to be charged under the government's new anti-terrorism laws in 2003 and served two years in prison after pleading guilty to a charge of threatening a government official.