'Is auditor-general under pressure to censor report?'

Pakatan Rakyat parliamentarians have demanded to know if the auditor-general (AG) has been “pressured to edit” his annual report to make it more palatable.

Hitting out at the government for the delay in the submission of the report, Petaling Jaya Utara DAP MP Tony Pua asked whether the government is “afraid” of the outcome.

He told reporters in the Parliament lobby that the during the administration of former premiers Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the report was presented concurrently with the Budget.

“Last year the AG’s report was one week late and this time it is yet to be tabled in Parliament. I repeat, is there pressure to edit the report?” he asked.

Earlier, Salahuddin Ayub (PAS-Kubang Kerian) questioned the delay in the Dewan Rakyat and asked deputy speaker Ronald Kiandee (right) for an explanation.

“What is the reason behind this unusual action this year? We have been asking for it since last week,” said Salahuddin.

Kiandee said Parliament is also waiting for the report and that the MPs will receive their copy in due time.

Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim interjected and insisted that the latter issues a “stern warning” and demands a “valid explanation” from the relevant ministry.

“Is this a trick? Why the delay? Is it to stop MPs from debating it?” asked Anwar.

But Kiandee insisted that parliamentarians had brought up the matter in the Supply Bill debate.

“Therefore, the minister will respond accordingly when winding up the Budget debate,” said the deputy speaker, ending the argument.