The gallery expects an announcement from Julia Gillard on her cabinet roster today or early tomorrow.
Shanahan reckons there’ll be very little change and no portfolio for Rudd.
ABC Online gives an outline that hedges its bets:
Some insiders say it would be “crazy” to give Mr Rudd any portfolio, given opinion polls and even the party’s own research have shown that the voters thought he was the party’s main problem.
One insider says that, given how close a federal election is, the Cabinet re-shuffle will be minimal to allow the Government to “get on with it”.
So, what’s your instinct telling you? Will Gillard play it safe and go for minimal disruption, or will she make a few “big statement” appointments to make her mark?
Update: [by Mark] Gillard’s reshuffle is minimalist, with Simon Crean taking on her portfolios, and Stephen Smith adding Crean’s portfolio of Trade to his Foreign Affairs responsibilities. The reshuffle suggests an election sooner rather than later. Kevin Rudd has again confirmed his intention to stand for Griffith at the election, and the PM has indicated that she can envisage him filling a senior ministry in a re-elected government. Lindsay Tanner, who’s indicated his intention to step down at the election, continues in Cabinet.
Was just reading an article speculating on this very question. Hints at a job for Rudd (someone suggested Roxon might move from Health), asking Jenny Macklin how she thought things were going going ( why ask Jenny Macklin, out of several dozen people? ).
So we’ll find out who was closest to Rudd or had previously offended the current clique. Interesting what turns up, as an indication of Gillard’s power and imagination.
Was just reading an article speculating on this very question. Hints at a job for Rudd (someone suggested Roxon might move from Health), asking Jenny Macklin how she thought things were going going ( why ask Jenny Macklin, out of several dozen people? ).
So we’ll find out who was closest to Rudd or had previously offended the current clique. Interesting what turns up, as an indication of Gillard’s power and imagination.
I’ve been reading the comments on conservative blogs associated with News Ltd and they think it would be crazy to give Rudd any portfolio.
Indedd former politician turned expert opinionist Mr Downer said that Rudd was unfit because he’s already damaged Australia’s relations with key nations.
I’ve been reading the comments on conservative blogs associated with News Ltd and they think it would be crazy to give Rudd any portfolio.
Indedd former politician turned expert opinionist Mr Downer said that Rudd was unfit because he’s already damaged Australia’s relations with key nations.
Heh. Land wars in Asia started:
Downer as Foreign Minister: 2
Rudd as Prime Minister: 0
…
I’m speculating Macklin down, Combet up, Ellis out, Roxon sideways. [Whistles the Hokey-Pokey]
Heh. Land wars in Asia started:
Downer as Foreign Minister: 2
Rudd as Prime Minister: 0
…
I’m speculating Macklin down, Combet up, Ellis out, Roxon sideways. [Whistles the Hokey-Pokey]
“Indedd former politician turned expert opinionist Mr Downer said that Rudd was unfit because he’s already damaged Australia’s relations with key nations.”
Do you think it will lead to war?
I think Gillard will go stable but maybe Conroy shifted and Lundy brought in to claw back some of that vote. She’ll have to make a good (but weasely) statement re climate/environment because they haven’t anyone with credibility amongst Green-mindeds to be able to make a statement-by-appointment Rudd could be either way – maybe stay ‘resting’ with a ministry post election.
“Indedd former politician turned expert opinionist Mr Downer said that Rudd was unfit because he’s already damaged Australia’s relations with key nations.”
Do you think it will lead to war?
I think Gillard will go stable but maybe Conroy shifted and Lundy brought in to claw back some of that vote. She’ll have to make a good (but weasely) statement re climate/environment because they haven’t anyone with credibility amongst Green-mindeds to be able to make a statement-by-appointment Rudd could be either way – maybe stay ‘resting’ with a ministry post election.
Liam uses unique methodology to measure quality in Foreign Ministers. One could be cruel to poor Liam and point out that relations between Oz & Iraq or Afghanistan were, pre invasions, already about as poor as international relations can get.
Downer surprisingly turned out a competent & capable one, one of the better we have had.
Rudd has a brown thumb in diplomacy. With him as PM our trickier-to-maintain relationships all went south. I wouldn’t let him near the foreign ministry. This man damaged the Labor “brand” so badly he was toxic. I wouldn’t let him near ANY ministry, not if I was seeking to be reelected. (And that is by far the most important consideration for the new PM)
Liam uses unique methodology to measure quality in Foreign Ministers. One could be cruel to poor Liam and point out that relations between Oz & Iraq or Afghanistan were, pre invasions, already about as poor as international relations can get.
Downer surprisingly turned out a competent & capable one, one of the better we have had.
Rudd has a brown thumb in diplomacy. With him as PM our trickier-to-maintain relationships all went south. I wouldn’t let him near the foreign ministry. This man damaged the Labor “brand” so badly he was toxic. I wouldn’t let him near ANY ministry, not if I was seeking to be reelected. (And that is by far the most important consideration for the new PM)
I’ve got zero ‘instinct’ for this, and regard the term as highly suspect, as if anyone who’s commenting here really knows Julia and the inner workings of the party that well…
But, if I was to be in a position to choose, I would put Rudd into foreign affairs. everybody agrees it’s a natural fit for him, plus the added bonus it gets him out of the country. And Smith can do something useful as finance Minister. Make Tanner the Special minister for State, finish off John Faulkner’s reforms. Joe Ludwig can find something else to do, I don’t care what.
I’ve got zero ‘instinct’ for this, and regard the term as highly suspect, as if anyone who’s commenting here really knows Julia and the inner workings of the party that well…
But, if I was to be in a position to choose, I would put Rudd into foreign affairs. everybody agrees it’s a natural fit for him, plus the added bonus it gets him out of the country. And Smith can do something useful as finance Minister. Make Tanner the Special minister for State, finish off John Faulkner’s reforms. Joe Ludwig can find something else to do, I don’t care what.
Ahh, Steve at the Pub’s reflexive partisanship kicks in. If failing to listen to your own advisers (what, 29 times?) regarding deep corruption is competent and capable, I’m a horse’s ass.
Ahh, Steve at the Pub’s reflexive partisanship kicks in. If failing to listen to your own advisers (what, 29 times?) regarding deep corruption is competent and capable, I’m a horse’s ass.
I read something somewhere (the Age?) earlier this morning to the effect that Gillard and others think Rudd is in desperate need of a rest, so if he doesn’t turn up on the front bench immediately it may be no indication that he won’t later. (Sorry about the triple negative there.)
Liam, what would you say was sideways from Health? And where do you think she’ll put Combet?
I read something somewhere (the Age?) earlier this morning to the effect that Gillard and others think Rudd is in desperate need of a rest, so if he doesn’t turn up on the front bench immediately it may be no indication that he won’t later. (Sorry about the triple negative there.)
Liam, what would you say was sideways from Health? And where do you think she’ll put Combet?
I don’t know what Gillard is going to do, but I hope that Conroy gets, er, promoted out of his current portfolio.
I don’t know what Gillard is going to do, but I hope that Conroy gets, er, promoted out of his current portfolio.
I think Julia could do nothing worse than to put Kevin Rudd in the ministry. It will make her look soft and weak and that is what the opposition want.
As for the rest of her cabinet, she has to careful to strike a balance between keeping enough stability to keep things ticking over with as little disruption as possible and also picking a cabinet that does appear to make her look a puppet of the right that a lot of people think she is.
Whether she is a puppet or not who knows only time will tell, but I think they all are in some way.
I think Julia could do nothing worse than to put Kevin Rudd in the ministry. It will make her look soft and weak and that is what the opposition want.
As for the rest of her cabinet, she has to careful to strike a balance between keeping enough stability to keep things ticking over with as little disruption as possible and also picking a cabinet that does appear to make her look a puppet of the right that a lot of people think she is.
Whether she is a puppet or not who knows only time will tell, but I think they all are in some way.
If Downer thinks that putting Rudd into Foreign Affairs is a bad idea, then by definition it is a good idea.
If Downer thinks that putting Rudd into Foreign Affairs is a bad idea, then by definition it is a good idea.
PC, yep my guess is Rudd will take some gardening leave until the election, and if rethe government is returned he’ll have a cabinet role at that point if he wants it.
But whatever Julia does, she’d better check with Arbib and Shorten first.
PC, yep my guess is Rudd will take some gardening leave until the election, and if rethe government is returned he’ll have a cabinet role at that point if he wants it.
But whatever Julia does, she’d better check with Arbib and Shorten first.
Its excellent Gillen has refused to reward the factional plotters. In fact, all Shorten has achieved for his own political career is a delay in what was a certain promotion. Good to see, too, that she has told that Victorian hack nobody had heard of who was expecting a Secretary’s position to bugger off.
Now Rudd. The only reason at this point for putting Rudd in the ministry is to coddle Queensland parochialism. (Sorry, Qlds. Lp-ers, but that’s the way it is.) He is reportedly exceedingly bitter about his dumping, understandably, but more imporetantly, he’s strung out and needs a rest, for his own and his family’s sake. And, in his present understandable bitterness, will be certain to cause on hell of a lot of trouble. This guy is no Alexander ‘Things that batter” Downing, who didn’t want the job anyway.
Perhaps some time in the future, if he’s learnt to change his management style, which despite his undoubted talent and intellect, was the cause oifd most of his problems. I feel saorry for him, (as I’ve no doubt many of his colleagues do, but pity is never a good basis for rewarding some-one
Its excellent Gillen has refused to reward the factional plotters. In fact, all Shorten has achieved for his own political career is a delay in what was a certain promotion. Good to see, too, that she has told that Victorian hack nobody had heard of who was expecting a Secretary’s position to bugger off.
Now Rudd. The only reason at this point for putting Rudd in the ministry is to coddle Queensland parochialism. (Sorry, Qlds. Lp-ers, but that’s the way it is.) He is reportedly exceedingly bitter about his dumping, understandably, but more imporetantly, he’s strung out and needs a rest, for his own and his family’s sake. And, in his present understandable bitterness, will be certain to cause on hell of a lot of trouble. This guy is no Alexander ‘Things that batter” Downing, who didn’t want the job anyway.
Perhaps some time in the future, if he’s learnt to change his management style, which despite his undoubted talent and intellect, was the cause oifd most of his problems. I feel saorry for him, (as I’ve no doubt many of his colleagues do, but pity is never a good basis for rewarding some-one
Mercurius @ 10 – Rudd getting to choose his ministers was the exception for the Labor party rather than the norm wasn’t it?
Mercurius @ 10 – Rudd getting to choose his ministers was the exception for the Labor party rather than the norm wasn’t it?
Rudd get a ministry? That’s gotta be as unlikely as Julia Gillard lining up for the dogs…
There is one major change that will have to occur, Gillard’s super ministry will have to be split up and apportioned out.
Rudd get a ministry? That’s gotta be as unlikely as Julia Gillard lining up for the dogs…
There is one major change that will have to occur, Gillard’s super ministry will have to be split up and apportioned out.
PC, since we’re still speculating: Roxon in charge of FaHCSIA, Combet into Finance. Having thought about it for a bit too, Burke to Immigration.
PC, since we’re still speculating: Roxon in charge of FaHCSIA, Combet into Finance. Having thought about it for a bit too, Burke to Immigration.
I think Stephen Conroy would be an excellent choice for Minister for the Pacific Islands, or Veterans Affairs, or Defence Support. He deserves the opportunity for a fresh start.
I think Stephen Conroy would be an excellent choice for Minister for the Pacific Islands, or Veterans Affairs, or Defence Support. He deserves the opportunity for a fresh start.
Downer surprisingly turned out a competent & capable one, one of the better we have had.
Oh Steve, you gotta take your show on the road, I can’t believe so many Australians are missing out on your unique comedy gold.
Downer surprisingly turned out a competent & capable one, one of the better we have had.
Oh Steve, you gotta take your show on the road, I can’t believe so many Australians are missing out on your unique comedy gold.
@13 –
Um, Paul, we have votes too.
And there are a lot of marginal seats in Queensland.
The Sunday Mail reported yesterday much higher percentages of Galaxy Poll respondents (in the 70s rather than 40s) in Queensland than other states thinking Rudd didn’t get a fair shake of the sauce bottle.
The state by state samples in a national poll of 800 aren’t very big, and would have a big MoE, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it’s right.
@13 –
Um, Paul, we have votes too.
And there are a lot of marginal seats in Queensland.
The Sunday Mail reported yesterday much higher percentages of Galaxy Poll respondents (in the 70s rather than 40s) in Queensland than other states thinking Rudd didn’t get a fair shake of the sauce bottle.
The state by state samples in a national poll of 800 aren’t very big, and would have a big MoE, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it’s right.
SATP, I’m hard-pressed to think of a worse Foreign Minister than Downer in my lifetime. (Actually I’m hard-pressed to even think of any names, which should give you a clue. Downer’s the only one who trod on his dick AFAIK. Hayden? Did alright. Who was Fraser’s FM? It’s all a non-distinguished but fairly competent blur.)
SATP, I’m hard-pressed to think of a worse Foreign Minister than Downer in my lifetime. (Actually I’m hard-pressed to even think of any names, which should give you a clue. Downer’s the only one who trod on his dick AFAIK. Hayden? Did alright. Who was Fraser’s FM? It’s all a non-distinguished but fairly competent blur.)
And outside of speculation into the area of wishlisting, I’d like to see Gillard turn Social Inclusion and/or Volunteering from one-of-the-Minstries-that’s-run-by-two-APS-level-fives-out-of-a-cubicle-in-PM&C into a Ministry proper with a senior person in the job.
And outside of speculation into the area of wishlisting, I’d like to see Gillard turn Social Inclusion and/or Volunteering from one-of-the-Minstries-that’s-run-by-two-APS-level-fives-out-of-a-cubicle-in-PM&C into a Ministry proper with a senior person in the job.
David Irving you want a worse (than Downer) foreign minister in your lifetime? Gareth Evans. (Evans would still be better than Rudd)
Hayden was fine as foreign minister. Downer’s performance in other portfolios was ..er.. mixed, but as foreign minister he performed admirably. Downer is guilty of nothing more than being disliked for partisan political reasons by the grantocracy and readers of those street corner activist rags one sees handed out by misfits in the big smoke.
David Irving you want a worse (than Downer) foreign minister in your lifetime? Gareth Evans. (Evans would still be better than Rudd)
Hayden was fine as foreign minister. Downer’s performance in other portfolios was ..er.. mixed, but as foreign minister he performed admirably. Downer is guilty of nothing more than being disliked for partisan political reasons by the grantocracy and readers of those street corner activist rags one sees handed out by misfits in the big smoke.
Mark @ 19.
I’ve seen that or similar polls. But really, when it comes to the election I have no doubt, whatever happens to Rudd or not re inclusion in the ministry, Queenslanders will look at the choice facing them – Gillard v. Abbott, hold their noses, and vote for Gillard, before the Coalition just as the rest of us shattered about what was done to Rudd, will do.
As for Rudd himself, he’s under tremendous strain he needs a rest, and, back in the cabinet, he woiuld have a knife in his back pocket. In this case, I don’t think its smart to keep your enemies closer.
Mark @ 19.
I’ve seen that or similar polls. But really, when it comes to the election I have no doubt, whatever happens to Rudd or not re inclusion in the ministry, Queenslanders will look at the choice facing them – Gillard v. Abbott, hold their noses, and vote for Gillard, before the Coalition just as the rest of us shattered about what was done to Rudd, will do.
As for Rudd himself, he’s under tremendous strain he needs a rest, and, back in the cabinet, he woiuld have a knife in his back pocket. In this case, I don’t think its smart to keep your enemies closer.
@23 – Paul, I’m sure there’s a case for Rudd taking some time off, but I doubt that we can necessarily conclude that he would “have a knife in his back pocket”, particularly since that could be more effectively wielded from the back bench.
@23 – Paul, I’m sure there’s a case for Rudd taking some time off, but I doubt that we can necessarily conclude that he would “have a knife in his back pocket”, particularly since that could be more effectively wielded from the back bench.
Tigtog, since you mentioned Dennis Shanahan in the post, I thought I’d pass on some words of wisdom from the said scribe this morning:
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/opinion/work-looms-for-hard-heads-who-executed-the-unelectable/story-e6frgd0x-1225884970239
As you were!
Tigtog, since you mentioned Dennis Shanahan in the post, I thought I’d pass on some words of wisdom from the said scribe this morning:
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/opinion/work-looms-for-hard-heads-who-executed-the-unelectable/story-e6frgd0x-1225884970239
As you were!
Burke from Forestry into Immigration would be an improvement in both portfolios.
Losing Tanner from the Cabinet (either today or after the election) will leave a big hole in terms of people with the understanding of the sustainability agenda and the commitment to it.
Combet deserves a major promotion.
Burke from Forestry into Immigration would be an improvement in both portfolios.
Losing Tanner from the Cabinet (either today or after the election) will leave a big hole in terms of people with the understanding of the sustainability agenda and the commitment to it.
Combet deserves a major promotion.
“Who was Fraser’s FM?”
Andrew Peacock and Tony Street.
“Who was Fraser’s FM?”
Andrew Peacock and Tony Street.
And Downer was at the heart of trying to screw Timor L’Este out of its oil revenue by defining the boundaries to the advantage of Woodside.
And Downer was at the heart of trying to screw Timor L’Este out of its oil revenue by defining the boundaries to the advantage of Woodside.
Andrew Peacock’s tenure as FM is best remembered for his opposition to the Fraser Government’s policy of continuing to recognise the Pol Pot regime (in the sheep’s clothing of the Coalition Government of Democratic Kampuchea) after it had been ousted by the Vietnamese in 1979.
Andrew Peacock’s tenure as FM is best remembered for his opposition to the Fraser Government’s policy of continuing to recognise the Pol Pot regime (in the sheep’s clothing of the Coalition Government of Democratic Kampuchea) after it had been ousted by the Vietnamese in 1979.
Banner headline in The Gillard Gazette (formerly The Opposition Oracle) is that Rudd will be not given a ministerial position, and that nice Mr Shanahan has told us to move on and not be distracted by personalities.
So I think that we can assume that Kevin Rudd will remain on the outer, but it’s all for his own good apprently. He might get something when Labor is re-elected, but we’ll all have moved on by then anyway.
Banner headline in The Gillard Gazette (formerly The Opposition Oracle) is that Rudd will be not given a ministerial position, and that nice Mr Shanahan has told us to move on and not be distracted by personalities.
So I think that we can assume that Kevin Rudd will remain on the outer, but it’s all for his own good apprently. He might get something when Labor is re-elected, but we’ll all have moved on by then anyway.
Downer can rest on his laurels with the AWB thing, I mean really, who cared about giving $290M to Saddam Hussein apart from the “grantocracy” and inner-city socialists?
Downer can rest on his laurels with the AWB thing, I mean really, who cared about giving $290M to Saddam Hussein apart from the “grantocracy” and inner-city socialists?
Mark, that Shanahan quote… one can only say omgwtfbbq.
Mark, that Shanahan quote… one can only say omgwtfbbq.
Mercurius wrote:
They have to talk to Clive and Twiggy first, so News Corp. know who to barrack for.
Mercurius wrote:
They have to talk to Clive and Twiggy first, so News Corp. know who to barrack for.
Paul @ 28
Andrew Peacock’s time as Foreign Minister was best remembered for his relationship with Shirley McLaine.
Paul @ 28
Andrew Peacock’s time as Foreign Minister was best remembered for his relationship with Shirley McLaine.
Quite so, Terry.
Quite so, Terry.
If Obama could appoint H. Clinton as Secretary of State after so much campaign blood on the walls, then there’s just as good a chance of Gillard giving Rudd the same role here. After all her sycophantic coo-ing to the US ambassador last Thursday, all a-flutter over THAT phone call, then she’s obviously enough of an Uncle Sam junkie to emulate the great man’s tactics.
Otherwise, I couldn’t care less what she does with Rudd. She’s done more than enough already.
If Obama could appoint H. Clinton as Secretary of State after so much campaign blood on the walls, then there’s just as good a chance of Gillard giving Rudd the same role here. After all her sycophantic coo-ing to the US ambassador last Thursday, all a-flutter over THAT phone call, then she’s obviously enough of an Uncle Sam junkie to emulate the great man’s tactics.
Otherwise, I couldn’t care less what she does with Rudd. She’s done more than enough already.
I’m inclined to the view that Rudd should be given a spell now. He did look like he was at the end of his emotional resopurces by the time of that last session in parliament.
Let him have a rest, tool up for the election campaign and then make him foreign minister afterwards.
I’m inclined to the view that Rudd should be given a spell now. He did look like he was at the end of his emotional resopurces by the time of that last session in parliament.
Let him have a rest, tool up for the election campaign and then make him foreign minister afterwards.
SATP, that’s no way to talk about newsstand vendors who sell the Herald-Sun!
SATP, that’s no way to talk about newsstand vendors who sell the Herald-Sun!
Give Wong’s portfolio to Combet, and change its name (Marketing 101).
Give Rudd time to rest and recouperate, then cushy role as Aussie rep to the UN or some such. He has long been thought to be angling for such, and clearly enjoyed being Kevin 747. Why not go with the flow?
Shame that Tanner is leaving – he made a lot of sense. Of course a sensible person could be expected to leave that grubby business while they were on a high, rather than being chucked out, one way or another. Another example of adverse selection (the good ones select out)?
Give Wong’s portfolio to Combet, and change its name (Marketing 101).
Give Rudd time to rest and recouperate, then cushy role as Aussie rep to the UN or some such. He has long been thought to be angling for such, and clearly enjoyed being Kevin 747. Why not go with the flow?
Shame that Tanner is leaving – he made a lot of sense. Of course a sensible person could be expected to leave that grubby business while they were on a high, rather than being chucked out, one way or another. Another example of adverse selection (the good ones select out)?
Gillard about to announce.
Heard from a source in Canberra that Macklin is out and Shorten has been promoted to Cabinet in her position.
Gillard about to announce.
Heard from a source in Canberra that Macklin is out and Shorten has been promoted to Cabinet in her position.
Terry @33
I know Andrew was notorious for his philandering ways, but his notoriety would derive more from his dalliance with Shirley Maclaine, the internationally renowned movie star and space cadet, and not the less well-known Ms McLaine, wouldn’t it?
Terry @33
I know Andrew was notorious for his philandering ways, but his notoriety would derive more from his dalliance with Shirley Maclaine, the internationally renowned movie star and space cadet, and not the less well-known Ms McLaine, wouldn’t it?
Nice pun!!
Nice pun!!
@42, trust you to spot it, Fran!
@42, trust you to spot it, Fran!
Just watching the media conference. Gillard’s outfit clashes horribly with her hair.
Just watching the media conference. Gillard’s outfit clashes horribly with her hair.
@44 – @Sam, were you in the habit of observing whether Rudd’s ties matched his hair?
@44 – @Sam, were you in the habit of observing whether Rudd’s ties matched his hair?
Julia has announced her new cabinet. It looks minimal. Rudd gets nothing which is a wise move. Julia seems to be backing away from some form of negotiated settlement on the mining tax saying it will be up to the people come election time. This seems like an obvious statement of reality.
Julia has announced her new cabinet. It looks minimal. Rudd gets nothing which is a wise move. Julia seems to be backing away from some form of negotiated settlement on the mining tax saying it will be up to the people come election time. This seems like an obvious statement of reality.
The “Sri Lankan” pun is always best Elise …*
*one for the cryptic fans …
The “Sri Lankan” pun is always best Elise …*
*one for the cryptic fans …
Rudd isn’t in the new Cabinet.
Rudd isn’t in the new Cabinet.
Actually Rudd was always well dressed as PM.
Actually Rudd was always well dressed as PM.
The outfit not only clashed, it made her backside look like a weather balloon.
The outfit not only clashed, it made her backside look like a weather balloon.
@50 – Keep digging, sam.
@50 – Keep digging, sam.
Sam, what are you doing? Take it somewhere else.
Sam, what are you doing? Take it somewhere else.
SATP, I don’t recall Gareth Gareth being all that bad, either. At least he didn’t turn a blind eye to a former govt instrumentality bribing the shit out of a despot we were about to start an illegal war with.
SATP, I don’t recall Gareth Gareth being all that bad, either. At least he didn’t turn a blind eye to a former govt instrumentality bribing the shit out of a despot we were about to start an illegal war with.
Australia needs a Green Jobs envoy, much like Van Jones in the US before he was hounded out by the Republicans.
Australia needs a Green Jobs envoy, much like Van Jones in the US before he was hounded out by the Republicans.
yay! Crean’s back! I’ve had a soft spot for Crean since his Texas Chainsaw massacre of the Coalition frontbench back in 1997. Fun Times!!! I hope he can do it again!
yay! Crean’s back! I’ve had a soft spot for Crean since his Texas Chainsaw massacre of the Coalition frontbench back in 1997. Fun Times!!! I hope he can do it again!
Evans did some good stuff on Cambodia, as I recall.
Evans did some good stuff on Cambodia, as I recall.
Julia’s done exactly what I thought she should and would have done, until I read Elise’s comment. It would have been brilliant to move Combet to Climate Change. All of the disappointed would have got the right message – paliament’s most respected Mr Fixit will find a way, after the election, to break any impasse and get something done.
Julia’s done exactly what I thought she should and would have done, until I read Elise’s comment. It would have been brilliant to move Combet to Climate Change. All of the disappointed would have got the right message – paliament’s most respected Mr Fixit will find a way, after the election, to break any impasse and get something done.
And after the election, and after his rest, she should make Rudd our envoy to the U.N. He doesn’t seem very good in government, but he knows how to work well at that level. I wouldn’t see this as necessarily less prestigious than foreign minister if the government really wanted to reclaim Australia’s place as a leading player at the U.N.
And after the election, and after his rest, she should make Rudd our envoy to the U.N. He doesn’t seem very good in government, but he knows how to work well at that level. I wouldn’t see this as necessarily less prestigious than foreign minister if the government really wanted to reclaim Australia’s place as a leading player at the U.N.
You can’t be an MP and an ambassador at the same time. Given that Rudd repeated to Gillard that he intends to stand for re-election, it wouldn’t make much sense for him to go through all that and then be sent off on a diplomatic posting afterwards (assuming he was re-elected, of course). Foreign Minister would be more likely.
You can’t be an MP and an ambassador at the same time. Given that Rudd repeated to Gillard that he intends to stand for re-election, it wouldn’t make much sense for him to go through all that and then be sent off on a diplomatic posting afterwards (assuming he was re-elected, of course). Foreign Minister would be more likely.
Regarding Downer and AWB:
Didn’t the bribes start beforeAWB was privatised? I think Downer was the FM at the time, too.
Regarding Downer and AWB:
Didn’t the bribes start beforeAWB was privatised? I think Downer was the FM at the time, too.
I think you’re right, Terangeree. So … not really the best Foreign Minister in the entire history of the universe after all.
I think you’re right, Terangeree. So … not really the best Foreign Minister in the entire history of the universe after all.
Brett @59: “Given that Rudd repeated to Gillard that he intends to stand for re-election, it wouldn’t make much sense for him to go through all that and then be sent off on a diplomatic posting afterwards (assuming he was re-elected, of course).”
Admittedly Rudd said that he wanted to work for the ALP in whatever capacity, and that he would contest the election. However…That was virtually moments after losing his job. Aren’t most people in shock and denial at that point, and not thinking clearly?
I dunno much about politics, but it sure looked to me like Rudd really wanted a major role, especially mixing in international circles. Playing minor fiddle doesn’t look like his scene. Surely he wouldn’t have jumped Beasley earlier, if he were content with a lesser role?
Incidentally, as best I remember the coup against Beasley, it seems like history has repeated itself to some degree. Rudd’s farewell speech was hard to watch, but so was Beasley’s…
If Rudd thinks for a while about how many people voted against him in the coup, wouldn’t he realise how uncomfortable he may feel in Cabinet if he goes back there? And the other MP’s may probably feel very uncomfortable dealing with him in a new ministerial role, given what happened?
It is not like he was a reluctant short-term appointee to the PM slot, who would be really glad to take on a less powerful role.
As such, it may be a better use of his undoubted talents to find a role outside of the parliament. Hopefully Rudd will come to his senses and not contest the next election, unless he is one of those perverse people who likes picking at old ego wounds on a daily basis? “Coulda been me,…” as the old song goes.
Brett @59: “Given that Rudd repeated to Gillard that he intends to stand for re-election, it wouldn’t make much sense for him to go through all that and then be sent off on a diplomatic posting afterwards (assuming he was re-elected, of course).”
Admittedly Rudd said that he wanted to work for the ALP in whatever capacity, and that he would contest the election. However…That was virtually moments after losing his job. Aren’t most people in shock and denial at that point, and not thinking clearly?
I dunno much about politics, but it sure looked to me like Rudd really wanted a major role, especially mixing in international circles. Playing minor fiddle doesn’t look like his scene. Surely he wouldn’t have jumped Beasley earlier, if he were content with a lesser role?
Incidentally, as best I remember the coup against Beasley, it seems like history has repeated itself to some degree. Rudd’s farewell speech was hard to watch, but so was Beasley’s…
If Rudd thinks for a while about how many people voted against him in the coup, wouldn’t he realise how uncomfortable he may feel in Cabinet if he goes back there? And the other MP’s may probably feel very uncomfortable dealing with him in a new ministerial role, given what happened?
It is not like he was a reluctant short-term appointee to the PM slot, who would be really glad to take on a less powerful role.
As such, it may be a better use of his undoubted talents to find a role outside of the parliament. Hopefully Rudd will come to his senses and not contest the next election, unless he is one of those perverse people who likes picking at old ego wounds on a daily basis? “Coulda been me,…” as the old song goes.
THOSE THAT BET ON MINIMUM CHANGE WERE RIGHT Crean got most of Julia’s portfolio’s while losing trade to Smith. Leaves any real change till after the election while giving Rudd time to reflect and decide what he really wants to do.
THOSE THAT BET ON MINIMUM CHANGE WERE RIGHT Crean got most of Julia’s portfolio’s while losing trade to Smith. Leaves any real change till after the election while giving Rudd time to reflect and decide what he really wants to do.
Suggests an earlier rather than a later election date
Suggests an earlier rather than a later election date
I’m pretty sure the bribes started before AWB was privatised. Which means that Downer was responsible for shovelling money to a man who we subsequently went to war against. Less forgiving nations would call that treason, but we in our ultimate wisdom rewarded him with another election victory.
I’m pretty sure the bribes started before AWB was privatised. Which means that Downer was responsible for shovelling money to a man who we subsequently went to war against. Less forgiving nations would call that treason, but we in our ultimate wisdom rewarded him with another election victory.
Dammit I wanted her to move Conroy.
Dammit I wanted her to move Conroy.
Sg @65: “…but we in our ultimate wisdom rewarded him with another election victory.”
Perhaps not so much rewarding the victors, but rather avoiding Biff as our PM?
A case of least-worst of 2 bad alternatives at the time?
Sg @65: “…but we in our ultimate wisdom rewarded him with another election victory.”
Perhaps not so much rewarding the victors, but rather avoiding Biff as our PM?
A case of least-worst of 2 bad alternatives at the time?
Fat chance of moving Conroy Mindy – ostensibly the portfolio is currently too busy to be messed with. In reality of course, Conroy is a big-time factional hack who is hanging onto his reward like a rat with a snickers bar.
Simon Crean FFS. More factional rewards – the guy is a serial failure.
Macklin kept her job too – she should have been sacked before Garrett but if you’re intent on going to the right of Tony Abbott they’ve now got the crew in place. The only surprise is they didn’t invite Ruddock to jump ship and do immigration for them.
Fat chance of moving Conroy Mindy – ostensibly the portfolio is currently too busy to be messed with. In reality of course, Conroy is a big-time factional hack who is hanging onto his reward like a rat with a snickers bar.
Simon Crean FFS. More factional rewards – the guy is a serial failure.
Macklin kept her job too – she should have been sacked before Garrett but if you’re intent on going to the right of Tony Abbott they’ve now got the crew in place. The only surprise is they didn’t invite Ruddock to jump ship and do immigration for them.
Ute Man, as I mentioned above, Crean was a strong performer as deputy leader way back when, he tore through the Coalition frontbench like a pitbull at a guide dog convention. What was it, 6 ministers in 6 months? Howard came within a bees’ dick of being a one-term failure because of that little ministerial guidelines controversy, and it was Crean every day who was hammering away at it.
Maybe Julia thinks we need that kind of aggro in the current environment?
Ute Man, as I mentioned above, Crean was a strong performer as deputy leader way back when, he tore through the Coalition frontbench like a pitbull at a guide dog convention. What was it, 6 ministers in 6 months? Howard came within a bees’ dick of being a one-term failure because of that little ministerial guidelines controversy, and it was Crean every day who was hammering away at it.
Maybe Julia thinks we need that kind of aggro in the current environment?
Doug @ 64
“Suggests an earlier rather than a later election date”
yes, it does rather, doesn’t it.
Mindy @ 66
“Dammit I wanted her to move Conroy.”
Didn’t we all. Kate Ellis would make an excellent communications minister – she has actual qualifications for it.
Doug @ 64
“Suggests an earlier rather than a later election date”
yes, it does rather, doesn’t it.
Mindy @ 66
“Dammit I wanted her to move Conroy.”
Didn’t we all. Kate Ellis would make an excellent communications minister – she has actual qualifications for it.
Arrgh, Lundy! I meant Kate Lundy!!! It’s too late in the day!
Arrgh, Lundy! I meant Kate Lundy!!! It’s too late in the day!
Rebekka – unfortunately I don’t think Lundy has the factional support required. She did a really good job in opposition and still does does a lot of work in that area.
Rebekka – unfortunately I don’t think Lundy has the factional support required. She did a really good job in opposition and still does does a lot of work in that area.
sg wrote:
The same Crean who had the most ineffectual stint in the Labor leaders box in the entire parties history. He’s hopeless. We haven’t heard a peep out of him since he got the chop and suddenly he’s a winner? When he got rolled the entire country on both sides of politics heaved a great sigh of relief so we wouldn’t be subject to another flavourless, mogadon door stop with him.
But hey, if you’re impressed with a dog who can play skittles…
sg wrote:
The same Crean who had the most ineffectual stint in the Labor leaders box in the entire parties history. He’s hopeless. We haven’t heard a peep out of him since he got the chop and suddenly he’s a winner? When he got rolled the entire country on both sides of politics heaved a great sigh of relief so we wouldn’t be subject to another flavourless, mogadon door stop with him.
But hey, if you’re impressed with a dog who can play skittles…
Lundy? Is that the sports minister? The one that is betting on Australia outplaying England at the Olympics in 2012?
Good grief …
I’m not even sure what reason in utility there is to have a Federal sports minister.
If it were entirely about health and community programs, I suppose that would be OK … but even then, health or social inclusion should do it.
Lundy? Is that the sports minister? The one that is betting on Australia outplaying England at the Olympics in 2012?
Good grief …
I’m not even sure what reason in utility there is to have a Federal sports minister.
If it were entirely about health and community programs, I suppose that would be OK … but even then, health or social inclusion should do it.
@Fran, no Lundy is not the sports minister, Ellis is.
Lundy was shadow minister for comms under the last govt, did an excellent job of it, has consistently opposed internet filtering, and has a masters in IT.
@Fran, no Lundy is not the sports minister, Ellis is.
Lundy was shadow minister for comms under the last govt, did an excellent job of it, has consistently opposed internet filtering, and has a masters in IT.
When he became leader people commented that he was much better as a deputy, Ute Man, and that he was generally good in his portfolio. Some people are well-suited to some roles but not others, and if Julia thinks that the BER needs an attack dog to defend it, well maybe Crean is the one to do it.
Although I do think he is better suited to trade/industry stuff. However, I would like to see a return to the days when the entire coalition frontbench panicked every time he came to the despatch box.
When he became leader people commented that he was much better as a deputy, Ute Man, and that he was generally good in his portfolio. Some people are well-suited to some roles but not others, and if Julia thinks that the BER needs an attack dog to defend it, well maybe Crean is the one to do it.
Although I do think he is better suited to trade/industry stuff. However, I would like to see a return to the days when the entire coalition frontbench panicked every time he came to the despatch box.
Sure, but after having had some time to think about it he repeated his intention to stand for re-election to Gillard in their conversation (yesterday or whenever it was). Anyway, in her press conference today Gillard was very clear that she was thinking about a senior ministry for Rudd after the election, not a diplomatic or quango position.
Sure, but after having had some time to think about it he repeated his intention to stand for re-election to Gillard in their conversation (yesterday or whenever it was). Anyway, in her press conference today Gillard was very clear that she was thinking about a senior ministry for Rudd after the election, not a diplomatic or quango position.
Brett @77, “some time to think”??? Two days???
C’mon Brett. Think of anyone you have known, when they have just lost their job.
Do they make much sense on what they will do with their future, within 2 days of the event?
Brett @77, “some time to think”??? Two days???
C’mon Brett. Think of anyone you have known, when they have just lost their job.
Do they make much sense on what they will do with their future, within 2 days of the event?
What a truly magnificent image that is.
What a truly magnificent image that is.
Rebekka @75, that’s probably exactly why she isn’t in the comms ministry. How could someone with that background support the conservatism of filters and “won’t anybody think of the chiiiiiiiildren???!”?
Rebekka @75, that’s probably exactly why she isn’t in the comms ministry. How could someone with that background support the conservatism of filters and “won’t anybody think of the chiiiiiiiildren???!”?
Update: [by Mark] Gillard’s reshuffle is minimalist, with Simon Crean taking on her portfolios, and Stephen Smith adding Crean’s portfolio of Trade to his Foreign Affairs responsibilities. The reshuffle suggests an election sooner rather than later. Kevin Rudd has again confirmed his intention to stand for Griffith at the election, and the PM has indicated that she can envisage him filling a senior ministry in a re-elected government. Lindsay Tanner, who’s indicated his intention to step down at the election, continues in Cabinet.
Update: [by Mark] Gillard’s reshuffle is minimalist, with Simon Crean taking on her portfolios, and Stephen Smith adding Crean’s portfolio of Trade to his Foreign Affairs responsibilities. The reshuffle suggests an election sooner rather than later. Kevin Rudd has again confirmed his intention to stand for Griffith at the election, and the PM has indicated that she can envisage him filling a senior ministry in a re-elected government. Lindsay Tanner, who’s indicated his intention to step down at the election, continues in Cabinet.
Okay, so how long are we supposed to wait, and how many times does Rudd have to repeat himself before we take him at his word? It’s highly unusual for ex-PMs — in Australia, at least — to hang around in Parliament; if he had indicated he wanted to leave it and serve in other ways he could have said so and nobody would blame him for it. So it’s hardly a knee-jerk response. I think it says something about his sense of duty, as well as his ego. He seems to think he still has something to offer and if he and Gillard can work it out, go for it.
Okay, so how long are we supposed to wait, and how many times does Rudd have to repeat himself before we take him at his word? It’s highly unusual for ex-PMs — in Australia, at least — to hang around in Parliament; if he had indicated he wanted to leave it and serve in other ways he could have said so and nobody would blame him for it. So it’s hardly a knee-jerk response. I think it says something about his sense of duty, as well as his ego. He seems to think he still has something to offer and if he and Gillard can work it out, go for it.
“election sooner or later”
I was wondering about that. On the Cup Fever show on SBS on Saturday night Conroy, when asked about watching world cup finals, made the comment “I was there for France ’98, Germany, and, depending on when the election is called, I may be a chance for South Africa.”
Given it’s on 14th July, maybe he just let something slip.
Perhaps he’ll let the filter slip too…
“election sooner or later”
I was wondering about that. On the Cup Fever show on SBS on Saturday night Conroy, when asked about watching world cup finals, made the comment “I was there for France ’98, Germany, and, depending on when the election is called, I may be a chance for South Africa.”
Given it’s on 14th July, maybe he just let something slip.
Perhaps he’ll let the filter slip too…
Out of curiosity, has a former PM ever done that? I mean gone to an election and returned [assuming Labor wins] to perform a different role in a government. It’s not happened in my lifetime, I’m fairly sure. Has it ever happened?
Out of curiosity, has a former PM ever done that? I mean gone to an election and returned [assuming Labor wins] to perform a different role in a government. It’s not happened in my lifetime, I’m fairly sure. Has it ever happened?
Alexander Downer. He’s psychologically damaged RE the subject of Kevvy.
There is just no other explanation, he’s gone way beyond the always amusing ‘political good hater’ category. Seriously, he sounds like he could publicly rant and rave about Rudd on the day of Therese being rediagnosed with cancer.
Should I feel sad?
Depends when your historical context for ‘Australian ex-PM’ begins.
It would be a very good thing for Rudd to become either foreign affairs or defence minister after the election. Apart from the useful fact that the man had always planned to remain in government until sometime in the next parliamentary term or two, I would like to see a little dent inflicted into the concept of the presidential prime ministership. It made sense for Hawkie to invent it (or at least expand it) when he did, but I think I can say without fear of contradiction that anything that makes it even just a little harder for the next Liberal PM to style himself as the sacred restoration of Lord Protector Commander in Chief Howard… Is a good thing.
Particurlarly if it’s that tool Morrison.
Alexander Downer. He’s psychologically damaged RE the subject of Kevvy.
There is just no other explanation, he’s gone way beyond the always amusing ‘political good hater’ category. Seriously, he sounds like he could publicly rant and rave about Rudd on the day of Therese being rediagnosed with cancer.
Should I feel sad?
Depends when your historical context for ‘Australian ex-PM’ begins.
It would be a very good thing for Rudd to become either foreign affairs or defence minister after the election. Apart from the useful fact that the man had always planned to remain in government until sometime in the next parliamentary term or two, I would like to see a little dent inflicted into the concept of the presidential prime ministership. It made sense for Hawkie to invent it (or at least expand it) when he did, but I think I can say without fear of contradiction that anything that makes it even just a little harder for the next Liberal PM to style himself as the sacred restoration of Lord Protector Commander in Chief Howard… Is a good thing.
Particurlarly if it’s that tool Morrison.
Depends when your historical context for ‘Australian ex-PM’ begins.
As a historian, history ends when memory begins, and the first PM I can remember is Fraser
It does seem to have been the norm for ex-PMs to stay on before him.
I didn’t think of defence for Rudd, that would be suitably weighty and international for him. I did wonder if Rudd might have in mind climate change, and the chance to rescue some of his legacy. But he’s probably done his dash in that area.
Depends when your historical context for ‘Australian ex-PM’ begins.
As a historian, history ends when memory begins, and the first PM I can remember is Fraser
It does seem to have been the norm for ex-PMs to stay on before him.
I didn’t think of defence for Rudd, that would be suitably weighty and international for him. I did wonder if Rudd might have in mind climate change, and the chance to rescue some of his legacy. But he’s probably done his dash in that area.
Nickws when Downer referred to Paul Keating, always as ‘Mr Keating’, you could really feel how deeply he despised him. It’s the contempt that the aristocracy feel for those who’ve tried to rise above their station.
Nickws when Downer referred to Paul Keating, always as ‘Mr Keating’, you could really feel how deeply he despised him. It’s the contempt that the aristocracy feel for those who’ve tried to rise above their station.
Ken, I don’t begrudge Downer for having hated a man who welcomed hate.
In fact the shear lack of provocation by Rudd compared to PK’s modus operandi makes the intense hatred of Kevin ’07 from sections of the Right look strange as far as I’m concerned.
Downer and Andrew Bolt have a genuine derangement for the subject of Rudd.
I think it’s a combination of the humiliation inflicted on Howard at the last election and the belief that Rudd somehow ended up being the one who won the Iraq War debate (thanks to the AWB scandal).
The ability to take Australia to war for little or no reason is a not-so-secret pride of the Liberal Party, I believe. There’s a deep, self-aggrandising love of patriotic exploitation in that party, right down to its genes.
Some of them think he crueled their pitch forever simply by getting onto the news and educating the sheeple about the AWB findings back in ’06.
Ken, I don’t begrudge Downer for having hated a man who welcomed hate.
In fact the shear lack of provocation by Rudd compared to PK’s modus operandi makes the intense hatred of Kevin ’07 from sections of the Right look strange as far as I’m concerned.
Downer and Andrew Bolt have a genuine derangement for the subject of Rudd.
I think it’s a combination of the humiliation inflicted on Howard at the last election and the belief that Rudd somehow ended up being the one who won the Iraq War debate (thanks to the AWB scandal).
The ability to take Australia to war for little or no reason is a not-so-secret pride of the Liberal Party, I believe. There’s a deep, self-aggrandising love of patriotic exploitation in that party, right down to its genes.
Some of them think he crueled their pitch forever simply by getting onto the news and educating the sheeple about the AWB findings back in ’06.
Seriously.
Simon Crean? Nobody else is scratching their heads?
Clock punching, time serving recipient of the worst kind of familial nepotism? It’s like promoting the mail room boy to CEO. Worst shadow treasurer in living memory (I’ll bet people don’t even remember him in the damn role during the Latham fiasco). Terrible leader, ineffectual minister. What’s he done or even capable of other than leaving a B shaped warm mark on a chair?
Really?
It’s a joke appointment or something.
Seriously.
Simon Crean? Nobody else is scratching their heads?
Clock punching, time serving recipient of the worst kind of familial nepotism? It’s like promoting the mail room boy to CEO. Worst shadow treasurer in living memory (I’ll bet people don’t even remember him in the damn role during the Latham fiasco). Terrible leader, ineffectual minister. What’s he done or even capable of other than leaving a B shaped warm mark on a chair?
Really?
It’s a joke appointment or something.
StFurious @ 84ish,
I’m not too sure how long you’ve been alive, but I’ve got a feeling that Gorton stayed on after being rolled in the party room by McMahon back in the late 1960s.
Before that? Menzies and Fadden in the late ’30s / early ’40s would, I think, meet your criteria, as would Billy Hughes after he was replaced as PM / UAP leader by Stanley Melbourne Bruce.
And then there was the revolving-door Prime Ministership of the Edwardian era…
StFurious @ 84ish,
I’m not too sure how long you’ve been alive, but I’ve got a feeling that Gorton stayed on after being rolled in the party room by McMahon back in the late 1960s.
Before that? Menzies and Fadden in the late ’30s / early ’40s would, I think, meet your criteria, as would Billy Hughes after he was replaced as PM / UAP leader by Stanley Melbourne Bruce.
And then there was the revolving-door Prime Ministership of the Edwardian era…
Dolly, the idiot son of the Bunyip Aristocracy supported by SATP: comedy gold, the best belly laugh all week.
Dolly, the idiot son of the Bunyip Aristocracy supported by SATP: comedy gold, the best belly laugh all week.
Thanks for the history, terangeree @ 90. I wasn’t around in the ’60′s, I’m a child of the 70′s.
Thanks for the history, terangeree @ 90. I wasn’t around in the ’60′s, I’m a child of the 70′s.
@90 – From memory, Whitlam remained in Parliament until 1978, although he was still opposition leader in 1977 when Fraser won a second election.
Calwell, never, PM, also stayed in Parliament for a very long time after he lost the Labor leadership.
@90 – From memory, Whitlam remained in Parliament until 1978, although he was still opposition leader in 1977 when Fraser won a second election.
Calwell, never, PM, also stayed in Parliament for a very long time after he lost the Labor leadership.
It also seems to be the custom for those British PMs who don’t go to the Lords.
Heath was still in parliament, for instance, in the first term of the Blair government, retiring only in 2001. Churchill also stayed an MP in very old age.
Blair, I think, is the exception.
Gordon Brown is now a backbencher, and hasn’t indicated any intention to leave The Commons as far as I know.
It also seems to be the custom for those British PMs who don’t go to the Lords.
Heath was still in parliament, for instance, in the first term of the Blair government, retiring only in 2001. Churchill also stayed an MP in very old age.
Blair, I think, is the exception.
Gordon Brown is now a backbencher, and hasn’t indicated any intention to leave The Commons as far as I know.
sg @ 80 – you’re probably right. It’s totally salvagable though, you just make it opt in, send all parents of school age kids a pre-filled form with a reply-paid envelope to opt in to filtering, the rest of us don’t get the stupid net filter, the parents get to rest assured that little Zachary and Khristabel can’t access the bad stuff instead of having to watch what they’re doing, everyone’s a winner baby.
sg @ 80 – you’re probably right. It’s totally salvagable though, you just make it opt in, send all parents of school age kids a pre-filled form with a reply-paid envelope to opt in to filtering, the rest of us don’t get the stupid net filter, the parents get to rest assured that little Zachary and Khristabel can’t access the bad stuff instead of having to watch what they’re doing, everyone’s a winner baby.
If you think of a heart valve replacement as something akin to a bypass … perhaps Rudd will do a Lazarus. Perhaps a Rudd/Turnbull stoush in three and a half years? Seems unlikely … but not impossible …
If you think of a heart valve replacement as something akin to a bypass … perhaps Rudd will do a Lazarus. Perhaps a Rudd/Turnbull stoush in three and a half years? Seems unlikely … but not impossible …
At some stage in the future a wiser Rudd might make a good prime minister. The Liberals would claim that Menzies was an example of someone who failed his first attempt at prime minister and learned from it. (No – I am not defending Menzies but at least he was to the left of all our recent Labor leaders.)
At some stage in the future a wiser Rudd might make a good prime minister. The Liberals would claim that Menzies was an example of someone who failed his first attempt at prime minister and learned from it. (No – I am not defending Menzies but at least he was to the left of all our recent Labor leaders.)