Australia's proposed new powers to stop agreements with foreign governments

REUTERS Under the new laws, Foreign Minister Marise Payne would sign off on all agreements with foreign governments. The Australian government is planning to introduce legislation which would enable it to veto agreements made by local governments and public organisations with foreign governments. The move may threaten a controversial deal Victoria state agreed with China. Under the new powers, which are subject to parliamentary approval, all states and local governments, as well as universities, must notify the federal government of their existing agreements with foreign governments. Any further negotiations they enter into will also be subject to approval by the foreign affairs minister…………………….