Australian Senate Passes Motion Calling for Inquiry Into Excess Mortality

While the motion doesn’t trigger a Senate inquiry, it is symbolic of rising concern among many politicians at rising excess mortality figures each year.

Flowers cover the coffins at a funeral at the Gatton Baptist church in Queensland, Australia, on Jan. 20, 2014. Tertius Pickard-Pool/Getty Images

The Senate has voted in favour of a call for an inquiry into excess deaths. This does not create a committee to hold such an inquiry, or refer the matter to one—but it is, however, symbolic of growing disquiet among politicians over the issue.

The motion, moved by United Australia Party Senator Ralph Babet, passed by 31 to 30 on Feb. 26, with Labor and the Greens opposed.