Controversial bill

THE Hungarian parliament has voted to pass its controversial coronavirus legislation, which will extend its executive powers indefinitely.

The bill has been condemned by critics both within Hungary and internationally as a step back for democracy, but Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government has brushed off what it has called “political attacks” as misinformed.

Extra hospital beds

AN extra 34,000 hospital beds will be provided to Australians following a deal between the federal and state governments and private health sector.