Malcolm Turnbull is right when he says the actions of a minority of extremists do not represent the broader Islamic community.

It’s well and good to deliver this message abroad, but it must be given directly to Tony Abbott and other Coalition MPs.

Unfortunately, Malcolm Turnbull has repeatedly refused to show leadership on this very issue and has tolerated Tony Abbott and other Coalition MPs sprouting all sorts of divisive and damaging language.

He has put politics above principles by refusing to tell Mr Abbott to pull his head in.

As the former Director General of ASIO, David Irvine has said:

“We should also recognise that the strongest defence against violent extremism lies within the Australian Muslim community itself.”

Inflammatory remarks undermine efforts to build social cohesion and mutual respect and should be condemned by political and community leaders.

It is time for Malcolm Turnbull to put his words into action and deliver this message to Tony Abbott and his party room.

TUESDAY, 19 JANUARY 2016