Tasmania's Racing Scandal: Howlett's Text Message Controversy

0:00It's March 5th. Here's your Sydney news in two minutes. Jane Howlett is facing tough questions in Tasmania's parliament over a text message and public statement from Tas Racing sent to Racing Industry folks. During last year's election campaign, caretaker rules say government resources can be used for party politics, but Tas Racing insists it wasn't meant as a political endorsement. Emails uncovered through right to information requests show Howlett's office knew about the communications before they went out, including approval from her advisor. She has repeatedly denied her team knew it would be sent as a text, sticking to her story that they only knew the content, not the method. Tensions bold over in fiery parliament clashes on Thursday. Howlett fired back at opposition questions, calling them a misogynist attack during International Women's Week and challenging the shadow. Attorney General on Inspiring Women in Politics Premier Jeremy Rockliffe jumped in, accusing Labour of being manipulated by wealthy mainland

1:00Greyhound Racing Interests opposed to the government's upcoming ban. Rockliffe says he's satisfied with explanations from the State Service Head and Tas Racing Board confirming in a February 4th letter that Howlett didn't direct the messages. Labour keeps pushing for answers on how taxpayer money funded the pro-government message and demands release of more rights information documents. They even moved to motion Thursday to force the emails public, but unanswered questions linger. The Daily News Now is made possible with support from our sponsor. When you need a moment alone, just lay back and listen.