The science behind Anthony Albanese's unusual hot mic moment

Detailed summary

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was caught on a hot mic joking with Energy Minister Chris Bowen about phone radiation and penises at the COP31 climate summit. The prime minister…

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was caught on a hot mic joking with Energy Minister Chris Bowen about phone radiation and penises at the COP31 climate summit.

The prime minister was recorded speaking to Bowen on Friday evening as they waited for a roundtable discussion to begin in Antalya, Türkiye.

"Do you keep your phone here? Don't," Albanese cautioned Bowen, gesturing to his left breast pocket, sparking an exchange about the potential impact of mobile phones on the body, including the heart's rhythm.

"I'm more conscious ... I've stopped putting it in my pants pocket," Bowen began before Albanese interrupted.

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"It's rather important — arguably more important than the heart," Bowen replied as the pair laughed.

Channel Seven initially broadcast a clip of their private banter on Friday evening.

A spokesperson for Albanese downplayed the leaked moment, saying the pair "were having a joke in between meetings," according to Nine newspapers.

However, the joking exchange raises questions about the impact of mobile phones on health, including common concerns they can cause cancer.

Opening of the article, excerpted from SBS News. To read the rest, open the article on the publisher's site.