Psychometric tests for Australian MPs
Would-be parliamentarians in Australia are to face psychometric tests to ensure they are smart enough to be politicians.
Media reports down under suggest that the Liberal National Party has introduced the psychometric tests to specifically measure a person's aptitude rather than concentrating on an individual's personality traits.
So far, only people seeking preselection in marginal seats have undergone the tests but existing MPs may face the same probe into their intellects.
LNP state secretary Michael O'Dwyer is reported as saying the psychometric testing was part of a new strict vetting process to ensure candidates were up to the rigours of being an MP.
He said the party was trying to get a very stringent process in place so the best candidates come through.
O'Dwyer said he was unaware if such tests were used elsewhere in Australian politics, but they have been used by the Conservatives in the UK in the run up to the last general election.
Psychometric tests have long been popular amongst big businesses looking to recruit the right candidates for top positions. Online psychometric tests are also used to weed out unsuitable candidates at the earliest stages of large-scale recruitment campaigns
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