Liberal backbencher Andrew Laming has announced he will introduce a private member’s bill to remove knights and dames from the honours system.
Tony Abbott has been roundly criticised for reinstating the honours, and the prime minister came under intense scrutiny following his decision to knight Prince Philip on Australia Day.
Abbott said in Monday’s address to the National Press Club that he would no longer be in charge of the appointments, instead leaving them to the council for the Order of Australia.
“I accept that the restoration of knighthoods was a captain’s call,” Abbott said. “I have listened, I have learned, I have acted, and those particular captain’s picks which people have found difficult have been reversed.”
Laming said that was “inadequate” and he wanted the scheme scrapped.
“Today’s announcement has failed to address the concerns and feelings of the electorate at large,” Laming said.
He said the bill had the widespread support of backbenchers but would not name individuals.
“The bill is currently being drafted,” he said. “I will be submitting this bill to the [parliamentary] selection committee in the coming days,” Laming said.
The former government whip Warren Entsch will second the motion, Guardian Australia has learned.
