Morrison and Albanese clash on Solomon Islands-China pact at first leaders’ debate of federal election

Scott Morrison accuses Anthony Albanese of siding with China as Labor leader wins support of 40% of undecided voter forum over PM's 35%

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Australia's political leaders have traded barbs over China's security agreement with Solomon Islands, with Anthony Albanese labelling it a Pacific stuff-up" and Scott Morrison accusing him of siding with China.

In an evenly matched outing in the first leaders' debate on Wednesday, the prime minister focused on handling of the economy while Albanese accused the government of treading water" and not pursuing any significant economic, social or environmental reforms".