Fake twitter account alarms Defence Minister

Defence Minister John Faulkner has alerted parliament to a fake Twitter account in his name.

He sought leave to make a personal explanation at yesterday's parliamentary sitting, claiming to "have been misrepresented".

"I have had the opportunity to view a Twitter blog, which purports to be my own personal Twitter blog," he said.

"For the purposes of the record, I wish to state that I do not have a Twitter account.

"I can also confirm for the Senate for those who might be interested that I do not have a personal Facebook account either."

The account, @SenJohnFaulkner, contained posts about transparency, accountability and nuclear materials and appeared to have been active for less than a week between 16 April and 22 April.

It claimed to be owned by John Faulkner, "A Senator for New South Wales with accountable representation since 1989. Minister for Defence. Vice-President of the Executive Council".