How to vote: first examine your values

How do voters decide on where to cast their vote? For some it is automatic, even unthinking. They have voted this way before, maybe always. They are the rusted-on voters.

For many though, it's a question of “What’s in it for me?” “What will I gain if I vote this way and what will I lose?” The party matters less than the gains that each pledges, and the losses each threatens.

There is another group. Its members weighs up the pros and cons of each party’s platform and selects the ones that align best with their individual values, beliefs and ideology. These are the thoughtful; they probably comprise many of the so-called ‘undecideds’, who in a recent Essential poll sat at 16%, with another 31% saying: ‘I am leaning in one direction, but it could change.’ In other words, 47% could still vote either way on September 14. These are the ones who decide who wins – the swinging voters. How do they decide?

If one can judge from comments in the Fifth Estate, many of this group has well-established views about society in a democracy and how it ought to operate. They have their policy preferences and their biases. They have attitudes towards the leaders, and know what they like and dislike about them.

This piece attempts to tease out what it is that separates the major parties ideologically, how this is reflected in policy, and how this influences voting behaviour.

The Liberals, the Nationals, the Greens and Labor all have party platforms available on the Internet that depict their values, ideologies, policies and plans. They make informative reading. You can look at them here:
Liberal Party: (24 pages).
National Party of Australia: (57 pages).
The Greens: (43 policies).
Labor Party: (268 pages).

There has been a tendency for the uninformed to mouth what I believe to be an inanity: ‘They are all the same anyway’, implying ‘What does it matter for whom we vote’, followed by the unrealistic proposition: ‘If the party we vote for is no good, we can throw it out!’ This is not only ridiculous; it is a cop-out, a lame excuse for not thinking, for not looking for the things that separate the parties. There are plenty, yet a glance through the party platforms shows striking similarities. They all embrace laudable objectives that on superficial inspection seem quite similar, which may explain why some believe the parties really are ‘all the same’.

And of course there are also similarities among politicians: the ruthlessness, the ambition, the primeval urge to claw to the top, the factionalism, the disingenuousness, the spin and the use of the glib slogan, as well as common decency and a desire to make this country a better place. But there are deep and enduring differences in philosophy, ideology, attitudes and values that starkly separate politicians and parties.

I thought it would be an interesting exercise to examine the party platforms by using a rather crude process to identify their major attributes – searching for key words and phrases in their platforms.

My first observation is that all party platforms and policies enshrine commendable objectives such as a robust economy and strong employment. All support good education and health care systems. They all insist that they want a fair society, opportunities for all, and support for the disadvantaged and the disabled. It is only when these policies are applied that the stark differences become apparent, and they are stark.

Let’s look at some areas to tease out these differences, beginning with the economy.

The economy
It is this aspect of governance that show up the differences most noticeably. Bill Clinton is often quoted as saying: “It’s the economy, stupid”, and it is. But I suspect he was referring to the need for a strong and growing economy. All parties in this country would agree with him, but the angle I wish to emphasize here is not that objective, but how different parties believe it can and should be achieved.

The Liberals place great value on ‘the right to be independent, to own property and to achieve’ and the ‘creation of wealth and competitive enterprise’. The Nationals do too, but seem to give the economy less emphasis.

The Greens believe that ’a prosperous and sustainable economy relies upon a healthy natural environment’ and that ’the pursuit of continuous material-based economic growth is incompatible with the planet’s finite resources.’

The Labor Party emphasizes the need for a strong and growing economy with employment opportunities for all who can work.

Note the subtle differences. The Coalition values enterprise, competition and independence with less emphasis on employment; labour is seen as a vehicle that enables enterprises to prosper. The Greens’ support of the economy is subject to its compatibility with a healthy environment. Labor sees the economy as providing jobs and prosperity for all.

These differences create the tension that exists, and has existed for centuries, between enterprise and labour. This is described in a piece on Turn Left 2013, that was written by Flora Tristan way back in 1843. Titled Workers’ Union, it describes the awful struggle that women had in that era achieving decent working conditions. Then, there was grotesque exploitation of labour by management – low wages, poor working conditions, child labour, and no benefits. Of course working conditions are much, much better now, but the tension continues.

Business and industry insists there must be more ‘flexibility’ in working conditions, which is code for workers working when management wants them to, poorer working conditions and entitlements, and lower wages and benefits. The struggle goes on to this day. For example, those in tourism and the catering industry are insisting they cannot turn a decent profit if they have to pay penalty rates at weekends, which they insist are just working days that should attract ordinary wages.

Unions battle for better working conditions, sometimes overegging their claims; management tries to whittle them back to improve competitiveness and profit. It is where political parties position themselves on the ‘management – labour’ spectrum that exposes their values and attitudes.

You will all recall how the public reacted to the punitive aspects of John Howard’s WorkChoices, legislated when he controlled both houses. He acknowledges he went too far, as do many of his ministers, so much so that Tony Abbott is scared witless about changing industrial relations in a way that suggests a return to WorkChoices, which long ago he declared was dead and buried, and for good measure, cremated as well. Very dead! It was electoral poison then and was a major factor in the Coalition’s 2007 electoral loss, and it is still poison. It is a metaphor for the political danger of taking extreme positions. Similarly, unions who adopt extreme positions in the other direction, also take dangerous political risks.

So here is the battlefield. Business and industry takes entrepreneurial risks, invest money and resources, and seek a healthy return and consistent profits. Enterprise generally seeks to engage its workforce for the least outlay. Those representing the workforce seek to ensure good wages and conditions, and security for workers.

If you imagine the tension has dissipated, think about the contemporary ‘457 visa’ row. Unions, workers, and the Government insist that some employers are abusing the system with overseas workers being brought in when local labour is available, leading to Australians missing out on jobs, and a lowering of wages in the affected sectors. Instances have been quoted, sufficient for Government to legislate a tightening up of the 457 visa system. The Coalition reacted by denying the problem, linking it to ‘the Government’s failed border protection policy’.

This is not the place to argue the pros and cons of the 457 system, but simply to highlight the reaction to the plan to revise it. Business groups screamed blue murder, insisting the scheme was vital in some sectors (no one is denying that) and that abuses were minimal. It seemed reluctant to accept that there ought to be more emphasis on training locals in preference to importing foreigners. It labelled the Government’s moves as xenophobic, Pauline Hanson style. Returning from overseas, Peter Anderson, CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, although conceding that there had been problems with 457 visas, nevertheless lambasted the Government’s moves on the basis of a headline in Singapore’s The Straits Times, insisting that the crackdown on the 457 visa scheme was getting bad publicity in Asia, and expressing the fear that it might damage Australia's reputation and create a backlash against Australian workers and companies in Australia.

This is yet another example of the tension between those in business and industry and their workforce.

There are those who take the extreme view that enterprise ought to be given the breaks because entrepreneurs are the ‘wealth creators’ who provide jobs for the workers. They take this view on the basis that the wealth they create trickles down to those at the bottom of the pile. That this is often little more than crumbs falling from the rich man’s table is illustrated in a graph from John Quiggin’s book Zombie Economics - How dead ideas still walk among us. In a paragraph headed Death – the rich get richer and the poor go nowhere, Quiggin uses a telling graph of household income in the US over a 36 year period, from 1967 to 2003. Do take a look. It shows that while those in the top 5% increased their income by over 60% in that period, those in the bottom 10% did not increase it at all, and even those on the 50th percentile, the half way mark, increased by less than 10%. It was only those on the 80th percentile or above that showed a substantial increase. The top half boomed; the bottom half stagnated. Not much trickle down there.

The theory of ‘trickle-down economics’ has been thoroughly debunked, yet it is still the base on which the Republicans in the US and their extreme partners, The Tea Party, build their case for not increasing taxes on the rich or taking away their tax breaks, preferring expenditure cuts that would adversely affect the poor and the disadvantaged. This was at the root of the dispute termed ‘the fiscal cliff’, which continues to this day. The conservative parties here, and the Coalition governments around this country, embrace the same doctrine and the ideology on which it is based. It might not be as extreme here, but it is nonetheless a driving force behind Coalition economic policy. Listen to Joe Hockey, Andrew Robb, Mathias Cormann, Barnaby Joyce and Cory Bernardi and your will hear the same dogma. Don’t bother listening to what Tony Abbott says; he says what ever suits his audience of the moment.

Yet another example of the tension between business and its workforce is the push by governments to achieve a budget surplus. All parties seek this outcome, but conservative parties believe budgeting for a surplus is an imperative even if the social consequences are dire. Labor pushed for a surplus for the current financial year in the belief that it was prudent economic policy to return to surplus after a period of stimulus. And it was. As it turned out, falling revenue meant that to achieve a surplus severe expenditure cuts would be needed that would slow the economy and increase unemployment. The Government chose to abandon its quest for a budget surplus and instead to support economic growth and growth in jobs, knowing it would be ridiculed by the Coalition for not achieving its aim, and breaking yet another ‘promise’.

On the other hand, Coalition governments in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, which continue to pursue budget surpluses, have demonstrated whom it is that suffers – those in education, health, other services, and of course the public service. Savage cuts in these areas in Queensland reduced Campbell Newman’s net popularity from +23 to -13, a 46% drop in six months. In Victoria, Ted Bailleau, who resisted wage increases to nurses, paramedics and teachers, and who savagely cut TAFE funding, found he had lost the confidence of his party room and resigned. His successor, Denis Napthine seems to understand that he has to be less fanatical in achieving a surplus.

Conservative governments also eschew debt, insisting that governments must live within their means, notwithstanding the fact that almost one in two Australian households have a home mortgage that takes many, many years to pay off, and three out of four have credit card debt. It’s apparently OK for households to go into debt when circumstances demand, but not governments. You will recall the resistance of the Coalition to the second and larger tranche of Government’s stimulus package during the GFC. Presumably the Coalition would have preferred to keep the debt down rather than keeping people in work and safeguarding small and large business. Labor preferred the opposite, and in doing so protected our economy from recession, steering it to be the best in the world today, with the lowest debt to GDP ratio in the developed world.

Although we have touched almost exclusively on the economy, these examples vividly illustrate the stark difference between progressive (Labor) parties and conservative (Coalition) parties.

Because this piece is already long enough, comparison of the parties and the contrasts they throw up in other areas of governance needs to be left for another time.

This piece asserts that indeed ‘it is the economy, stupid’. It most influences voter thinking, but in a subtle way.

Although Australia has the most prosperous and vibrant economy in the developed world with parameters that finance ministers the world over envy, this will not be sufficient for many voters. They have come to expect such economic strength, and give the Government little credit for having brought it about. Therefore the driving force behind thoughtful voters’ decisions at election time is likely to be the extent to which each party matches the values they hold dear.

The two major parties exhibit almost diametrically opposed values. Progressive parties value jobs and economic growth more than running budget surpluses and retiring debt. Conservative parties detest debt and insist on running surpluses to pay it off, more than they value full employment and economic growth. The behaviour of contemporary Federal and State governments provides the supporting evidence this assertion requires.

Progressive parties place great store in social justice. By their actions, conservative parties appear to place more emphasis on commercial success. Labor values fairness and opportunity for all, seeks to achieve an equitable balance between incomes and wealth across the population, and supports the disadvantaged. In contrast, the Coalition decries what it describes as ‘a sense of entitlement’ that it says afflicts much of the electorate, ironically having created much of it in the first place. It takes a neo-liberal free market approach. It prefers to support the entrepreneurs, the wealth creators: business and industry, and casts as villains those who support working conditions: Labor, and of course the unions, whose officials it describes as thugs. The contrast between the parties is striking.

This comparison, this contrast, ought to influence thinking voters, who ought to vote according to their values. I wonder if they will, come September 14?


What do you think?

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Catching up

19/03/2013"Don’t bother listening to what Tony Abbott says; he says what ever suits his audience of the moment. " Never a truer word spoken. When the elections come, some will vote, as they have all their lives, for whichever party they support. Some will base their vote on their own beliefs. Some will even vote for someone, they believe will gives us a better society. Many will look to what party promises them the most. Some will even just lodge a donkey vote, just going down the page or nothing at all. Some will go with the strength, stick to the one that is tops in those polls. Others will vote according to what they consider important regardless of politics. Such as NBNco, which I believe will be the sleeper. We have a big number which I believe is new, that will be lodged a vote against this PM because of their own prejudices of not liking a a single, unmarried atheist woman as PM. It matters not what she has achieved. PS Listening to Turnbull. He is indeed in full flight within the house. I believe we are going to hear much of what he is saying will repeated over and over. One wonders what his agenda really is. The public interest bill is to be voted on last. That appears to have upset Turnbull. One would think he was back in court. That is the level of his speeches. Each one is getting more animated than the last. Could he be going after Abbott's job? His anger, arrogant anger, suggests to me that the PM might have more chance of success than she is being given credit for.

Ad astra

19/03/2013Catching up Interesting comments. There is much truth in what you say. We will need to watch Malcolm Turnbull. He seems to be on a mission - a pro media mission. What's his game? I'm sure he covets Abbott's job - I wonder what his strategy is.

Catching up

19/03/2013He is still going. Could it be a filibuster to delay the vote?

Catching up

19/03/2013Has finished at last. Wonder will the next speaker talk as long

2353

19/03/2013CU - I also suspect the NBN is a sleeper issue. Earlier tonight I was talking to a person who lives 25km from his nearest (pretty small) town in South West Queensland. Wireless internet doesn't work for him or the business he operates from home. He recently applied for the NBN (I suppose via satellite) which will be installed on Monday. He's biggest concern is that the LNP will get in and switch off his dependable internet connection that will allow him to operate his niche business as if he was located in a big city. Good article AA - I hope you weren't looking up the Nats and Liberal policies on your birthday!

Ad astra

19/03/20132353 Thanks. No, I did that a few days ago!

Casablanca

19/03/2013Bananaby Joyce says he will run against Tony Windsor in New England if asked by the Nationals. Richard Torbay (NSW pollie)has suddenly withdrawn his candidacy.

Catching up

19/03/2013Might just get beaten.

Truth Seeker

19/03/2013Ad, Nice breakdown of the economic differences between the two main players, and one of the reasons why i've never been able to bring myself to vote for the conservatives. I have made the point on many occasions that the LNP have an unspoken creed that says; "Every man, woman and child for themselves," with the disclaimer "unless you're rich, and then they will do all they can to help you gain even more!", and their economic ideologies bear that out. Keep up the great work :-) Cheers :-) :-)

2353

19/03/2013CU - you can only hope. If Joyce ran and lost it would certainly increase the IQ of the Australian Parliament - but I pity St George!

Catching up

19/03/2013The question is why the present nominee has resigned, also leaving the party. Did not the the name, something like Torbay.

orangefox

19/03/2013I have been thinking for months that Malcom Turnbull will surface again. He knows his version of the NBN is a turkey and he probably hates selling it because it makes him look like an idiot. He realises if he continues in that position he will be tared as a future Liberal leader. Also he knows that he is liked by many and if he became leader Labor would be in even more trouble. Lets hope Abbott stays leader but I think it won't be the case. It would be interesting to see how Labor would respond. That's why Labor stratagyists should start thinking about this.

Ad astra

19/03/2013Truth Seeker Many thanks for your comment. You have summed up the conservative philosophy aptly: [i]"Every man, woman and child for themselves"[/i]. orangefox Turnbull will be one to watch. I bet Abbott is watching, with some apprehension.

Casablanca

19/03/2013CU [b]Tony Windsor rival dumped by Nationals[/b] March 20, 2013 Sean Nicholls Kate McClymon [i]Richard Torbay has been dumped as the Nationals candidate for New England after information emerged he had previously accepted funding from Labor to run as a state independent against Nationals candidates. It is understood the Nationals are concerned about possible links to the family of the then Labor powerbroker Eddie Obeid[/i] Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/tony-windsor-rival-dumped-by-nationals-20130319-2ge03.html#ixzz2NzIPeuOx

Casablanca

19/03/2013AA & orangefox I commented a few weeks ago that Malcolm had taken his baton out of his briefcase and that we would be seeing and hearing even more from him. I also observed that he was losing his product differentiation by becoming more like the other ranters on the Opposition frontbench. In particular, he is making many more ad hominem attacks. No more Mr Nice Guy it seems.

Catching up

19/03/2013Casablanca, Turnbull has put on an Academy winning performance tonight.

jane

20/03/2013Ad astra a thought provoking post for us all. It's made me think about whether I'm a rusted on unthinking voter, or one who considers the policies and considers whether they will affect the country favourably. In all the elections I have voted in, I have never considered that the Liars Party has had the best interests of the country or ordinary people at heart. Their policies are always skewed toward big business and the wealthy, no matter how much they claim otherwise. None has seemed more overtly so than the Howard government and now that scrap bin of stale leftovers from the Howard government, which compromise the current opposition. They offer nothing in the way of positive thought or ideas, just a relentless mind numbing stream of negativity, spite and mendacity. The are bereft of any policies that would have a positive impact on this country or the lives of its citizens, save for the likes of Gina Rinehart, Rupert Murdoch and other similar wealthy individuals. Their hysterical opposition to pokies reform, the carbon price, Gonski, the stimulus and the successful infrastructure programs BER & HIP to the visionary NBN which will provide fast efficient communications and internet far into the 21st century, is indicative of the barrenness and sterility of thought prevalent in the LNP. Their only ideas and the few details of policy thought they've shared with the us, are proof of what I have said above. All they have is a grab bag of tired, tattered rubbish from the Howard era. An era characterised by profligate waste of the mining boom, transfer of welfare from the people who most needed it to people who didn't need it at all, tax breaks for the wealthy, committing us to an illegal invasion of Iraq based on a lie the corruption of AWB, and Regional Partnerships. An era which made greed, selfishness and an inflated sense of entitlement the corner stone of its existence. Which is why I will never vote 1 Liars. CU, I agree with you & 2353 that NBN could be the issue which will get the government over the line. For all their bad mouthing of the NBN, Liars MPs are queuing up demanding it for their electorates, pronto. I'd say this is at the prompting of voters; if they were indifferent or hostile, Liars MPs would be spruiking it at the top of their voices. Further, I would argue that voters are holding their noses at Turnbull's pigs' breakfast masquerading as an alternative NBN, which is another reason that Liars MPs are clamouring for Labor's NBN to be rolled out in their electorates. They know that Turnbull's alternative is a giant and ultimately very costly lemon. His arrogant [i]let them eat cake[/i] fttn if you're lucky and we'll slug you an extra 3 grand to get ftth betrays typical Liars attitudes to the less well off.

pete1975

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Casablanca

20/03/2013 [u][b]BREAKING NEWS[/b][/u] [b]POPE WEDGES ABBOTT ON ENVIRONMENT & NEGATIVITY[/b] Actually, I just made up that heading but I thought it when I read the following: [i]Pope Francis called on ''all men and women of good will'' to protect creation, [b]the environment and each other. [/b][/i] Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/world/pope-vows-to-protect-the-weakest-in-inaugural-mass-20130319-2gdzp.html#ixzz2NzpZww5P [u][/u]

paul walter

20/03/2013I caught up with both 4 Corners and Media Watch last night and they both confirm the thinking behind this thoughtful thread starter. Liberal theory values the individual and freedom of action yet as 4 Corners showed re Wall St, the idea has come to be qualified on a concept that one's "advancement"(whatever that is) must only occur at the expense of others. Laborism is actually a form of small l liberalism and doesn't require the dismemberment of capitalism so much as its management, whilst Greens thinking re-emphasis the role of true rationality. But the dismemberment of the Deakinite and Keynesian Settlements Settlements is the real life outworking of the old tale of the greedy crazed idiots who couldn't be bothered waiting for the goose to lay the next golden eggs and in their haste butchered it instead, finding too late there was no gold, only goose-guts and goose shit, for their indecent rush. Once again the idea of radical change looms, as it seems once again that capital cannot be content to just be a part of things, but must feed off all else like a giant bloodsucking vampire squid. But it's awfully late in the day..

lyn

20/03/2013Today’s Links What we talk about when we talk about press freedom by @lukeayresryan 70% of what passes as news is controlled by a single person (Rupert Murdoch) or his bobbling hand puppet (Kim Williams). http://www.thevine.com.au/life/news/what-we-talk-about-when-we-talk-about-press-freedom/ The Freedom To Make Things Up by @MikeSeccombe Murdoch media, around the world, sees freedom of the press as meaning freedom to mislead, misrepresent, and outright make things up. http://powerhouse.theglobalmail.org/the-freedom-to-make-things-up/ Dear Leader Kim Williams Fights For Democracy by @MikeSeccombe dear leader Kim was there to argue that in the most concentrated, least diverse media market in the developed world, freedom of the press is under threat. http://powerhouse.theglobalmail.org/dear-leader-kim-williams-fights-for-democracy/ Someone said something to someone by rossleighbrisbane, @MigloMT A leadership spill is speculated to occur tomorrow, and on Thursday . . . Friday at the latest http://theaimn.com/2013/03/19/breaking-news-someone-said-something-to-someone/ Journalist @MargaretSimons stands up to Oz intimidation, speaks out on media reform by @margokingston1 Here is her submission to the Senate media reform inquiry. She will give evidence at 6.30 tonight http://australiansforhonestpolitics.wordpress.com/tag/fitzgerald-inquiry/ What will the Australian Press Council do about this- @no_filter_Yamba newspaper which so distorts the facts and journalists whom I'm told now know that they have based their 10,632 company collapses on a dodgy premise? http://northcoastvoices.blogspot.com.au/ Bad chemistry in media battle by @mumbrella Gillard was asked at her news conference and again in Parliament whether, if the package can’t get through this week, she would take it to the election. http://mumbrella.com.au/bad-chemistry-in-media-battle-146272 Uncivil &unbalanced: the Australian media can’t be trusted to report on industry reform by @WakeinFright negative pieces on the reforms outnumber positive articles by 100 to 6. https://theconversation.edu.au/uncivil-and-unbalanced-the-australian-media-cant-be-trusted-to- Gillard’s Media Fight by @attardmon they should perhaps take the advice of one feisty female leader who once recommended that they “just don’t write crap http://thehoopla.com.au/media-laws/ The media reform bills – what is really in them by @ethicalmartini there is no fundamental threat to Rupert Murdoch or anyone else in this legislation http://ethicalmartini.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/the-media-reform-bills-what-is-really Honesty is its own punishment by @crazyjane13 Lies, lies, lies. And the worst lies of all? The ones that we hear, day after day http://consciencevote.com.au/2013/03/19/honesty-is-its-own-punishment/ And the orchestra began on cue by @btckr Liberal commentators began saying the PM, Julia Gillard, would be rolled on Wednesday, 20 March http://truthinmediaresourcecentre.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/and-the-orchestra-began-on-cue/ A Little Bit Of This! A Little Bit of That! Makes You Wonder by @knarfnamduh usual rumours of rumours being rumoured by rumour mongers on Julia Gillard http://deknarf.wordpress.com/ Building more dams will bring a bigger emissions headache by @Mothincarnate building more dams, the Coalition is making its direct action plan even more difficult to implement. http://newanthropocene.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/building-more-dams-will-bring-a-bigger- Vote in Pub Poll on Media Reform, What do the PUBLIC want by @YaThinkN "Explainer: Conroy’s proposed new media laws" by Martin Hirst http://yathink.com.au/article-display/vote-in-pub-poll-on-media-reform-what-do-the-public Two media bills pass Lower House by SBS Independent MP Tony Windsor is optimistic for this week. http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1748254/Two-media-bills-pass-Lower-House 'Feisty woman' will win over 'policy weak' Abbott: PM Video Tony Abbott links the fate of the government to its controversial media reforms, and speaker Anna Burke struggles to maintain control. http://media.watoday.com.au/selections/question-time-gets-willing-4122322.html Today’s Front Pages Australia Newspaper Front Pages for 20 March 2013 http://www.frontpagestoday.co.uk/index.cfm?PaperCountry=Australia

Ad astra

20/03/2013LYN'S DAILY LINKS updated: http://www.thepoliticalsword.com/page/LYNS-DAILY-LINKS.aspx

2353

20/03/2013What happened to the imminent "leadership challenge" this morning? Lakita Bourke was the Canberra talking head on ABC Breakfast this morning and was hosing it down (if this happens and if than happens and if all the ducks line up etc it might happen on Friday) faster than Bev O'Connor was building it up yesterday. If they keep on reporting it, they might get it right one day (potentially when the PM gets to retirement age). Do they really think that we are that gullible. Have the media overcooked it? Stay tuned for the next exciting episode. Makes you really want to go back to Ten's CBS Morning Show from the US while eating the corn flakes. Seriously my suspicion is that they got caught out so badly on the Rudd/Gillard changeover they have firstly never forgotten and secondly have made s vow never to be caught out again (leading to a constant theme). Notice also the language has changed on the Rudd/Gillard changeover since the LNP did it in Victoria and the NT recently as well, Great links Lyn - thanks again. AA - I think "Pete1975" might be spam.

TalkTurkey

20/03/20132353 Not even spam! Not even made with real ham!

Patriciawa

20/03/2013Great post, Ad Astra. Shared values about social justice seem to be what draw us here to TPS to exchange ideas. Lyn's links, as always give us even more to think about. I was particularly intrigued today by a new site which focused on what consumers think about our media here in Oz and whether they want reform. http://yathink.com.au/article-display/vote-in-pub-poll-on-media-reform-what-do-the-public-want,59 Now that the legislation looks like being carried in the main and all the leadership nonsense is disposed of I think we can begin to understand the PM's strategy in pushing the media bills through at this particular time when Murdoch was being challenged and defeated in the UK. PS I am having problems with my gravatar. Yesterday I really hated having my birthday greetings to you under a face like this with my tongue stuck out. How do I get rid of it? Has anyone else had this problem?

nasking

20/03/2013 PATRICIA WROTE: [b]Now that the legislation looks like being carried in the main and all the leadership nonsense is disposed of I think we can begin to understand the PM's strategy in pushing the media bills through at this particular time when Murdoch was being challenged and defeated in the UK. [/b]

nasking

20/03/2013 [b]COMMENT crikey.com.au billie Posted Thursday, 31 January 2013 at 2:02 pm Tony Abbott endorsed Richard Torbay’s canditure for seat of Lyne or New England saying he had been his best man. Some endorsement Tony Abbott was Peter Slipper’s best man[/b]

Bilko

20/03/2013AA Another good piece. I believe if Voters vote the Coalition in the country will be in a recession within a year and why because they will apply the same methods as per QLD & VIC governments, and their own DNA only know one course of action, which are both in a technical recession sacking public servants sending unemployment up. These now unemployed packaged or otherwise people will then stop spending on everything but essentials. I know I have been there twice in my life one quickly re-evaluates everything. People spending less consumer confidence falls, small business failure increases and more bankrupts. ALL of these were avoided or reduced considerable with Labors stimulus package will return. While the rest of the world envy us now we will soon become a laughing stock. Australians have 5 months to come to their senses before this tragedy engulfs us. This could happen because one old man in the USA does not want the NBN built as it will effect his bottom line.

Ad astra

20/03/2013jane Your thoughtful response is what I hoped this piece would evoke – how do we reach a decision about how we ought to vote? You belong to the group that thinks deeply about the issues, the policies and the plans that the parties present. You make a salient point when you say: [i]”I have never considered that the Liars Party has had the best interests of the country or ordinary people at heart.

Their policies are always skewed toward big business and the wealthy, no matter how much they claim otherwise.”[/i] You identify an important feature that differentiates parties: which one legislates for the common good, the common weal, and which legislates to advantage target groups from whom voting support is sought. You see the Coalition legislating in favour of the well off, and Labor for the less well off. It is even subtler than that – in the years of the mining boom when it was rolling in money, the Coalition legislated in favour of the middle class with welfare benefits – the baby bonus is an example. Although these welfare payments attracted plaudits at the time, they created a sense of entitlement that is now costing the country dearly, and in fact they are not sustainable while revenue is falling, as even Joe Hockey now acknowledges. Notwithstanding this, Labor’s attempts to direct welfare to the more deserving have been criticized as discriminatory by the Coalition. It comes down to values. Should equality be a goal? Should the wealth of the nation be more evenly distributed, or be allowed to concentrate at the wealthy end? In his book [i]The Price of Inequality[/i], Joseph Stiglitz shows the adverse effects that accompany inequality: social discord, and where extreme, social disruption and even civil strife. The question then is whether our personal values lead us to support a party that fosters equality, or one that does the opposite.

Tom of Melboune

20/03/2013Is honesty a value? If anyone valued honesty, they would shun Gillard.

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20/03/2013Casablanca Bravo Pope Francis. Of course Tony Abbott and little Sir Echo Greg Hunt would claim that the Coalition’s Direct Action Plan [b]would[/b] protect the environment. Imagine 20 million trees sucking in CO2! Where they would be planted, who would plant them, and how this mega project would be managed, has never been revealed and our indolent media has never asked.

Ad astra

20/03/2013paul walter Thank you for your complimentary remarks. You are right when you describe the philosophy of big capital: [i]"advancement" (whatever that is) must only occur at the expense of others…feeding off all else like a giant bloodsucking vampire squid.”[/i] That is the problem – the rich get richer and the poor languish.

Ad astra

20/03/2013Hi Lyn I’ve started on your links but haven’t yet got far. I’m responding to comments overnight and this morning. I did enjoy the Mike Seccombe article. He always writes so well.

nasking

20/03/2013 NOT SURPRISING SKY NEWS PUSHING KEVIN RUDD: [b]KEVIN RUDD rejected plans to allow the ABC to keep operating Australia's official TV service in Asia, despite a confidential government review that gave a gold star to the public broadcaster for running the Australia Network. The detailed ''mid-term'' report by the Foreign Affairs Department was never released to the ABC but prepared last year to help decide the future of the $223 million taxpayer funded service. But Mr Rudd - toppled from the prime ministership only days before the report was finalised - decided, on taking over as Foreign Minister after the election, to demand a more intense process. The service was put to tender in February and Sky News, part-owned by News Corporation, entered competition with the ABC for a new 10-year contract.[/b] http://www.smh.com.au/national/rudd-pushed-on-with-bids-for-australian-network-despite-support-for-abc-20111023-1meih.html SLY NEWS...SLY AS A MURDOCH FOX. N'

Crowey

20/03/2013Ad astra Have you ever heard of WORK FOR THE DOLE, only this time they will be working flexible hours, like 24/7

nasking

20/03/2013 DISASTER FOR ABBOTT...BAD JUDGEMENT PER USUAL: [b]TONY ABBOTT: Look, my business is not to run around the countryside offering commentary on independent members of Parliament. My business is to promote Coalition candidates for all seats and so we've got a couple of terrific candidates running in the seats in question, really, really good candidates. Richard Torbay in New England is an outstanding candidate. [/b] http://www.tonyabbott.com.au/News/tabid/94/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/9052/QA-Session-National-Press-Club-of-Australia-Canberra.aspx IF BARNABY WINS WILL HE BECOME FINANCE MINISTER? BWA HA HA... N'...RETURNED P/T DUE TO A COUPLE OF MEDIA REFORMS GOING THRU...AND TO GIVE THUMBS UP TO INTENSE DISCUSSIONS ON FURTHER REFORMS.

Ad astra

20/03/20132353 There doesn’t seem to be much movement on the ‘leadership’ matter this morning; just a lot of desultory media comment. Time will tell whether you are right about pete1975. Patriciawa Thank you for your kind remarks, and for pointing us to the new website ‘YaThink’, which rightly points out that the PUBLIC seems to be the group that is being ignored in the contemporary media debate. We have no control over Gravatars. I suggest you go to your account on http://en.gravatar.com to see what has happened.

Ad astra

20/03/2013Bilko Thank you for your kind comment. I have said for some time that by September 14 LNP governments in Queensland, NSW and Victoria will have demonstrated just what the country would be in for with an Abbott government.

nasking

20/03/2013 MEMORIES; MICHELLE GRATTAN: [b]The flamboyant Joyce is also overshadowing and driving mad shadow treasurer Joe Hockey, who is in a low anyway after mismanaging his leadership bid. Hockey cleans up after some of Joyce's messes but the prospect of them forming a tight partnership on economic issues is out of the question. Economics is Abbott's weak point. Even with a competent and discreet finance spokesman, the opposition would be struggling to convince people it is even close to a match for Labor in this area. Abbott needs to move Joyce before it all ends in tears.[/b] http://www.nationaltimes.com.au/opinion/politics/loose-cannon-needs-firing-20100209-npqn.html -------- BERNARD KEANE @ CRIKEY: [b]This is where Abbott’s misjudgement in appointing Joyce is really biting. And I use “misjudgement” deliberately. It was not a mistake — that suggests a casual error, like he got Joyce’s name stuck against the wrong column when he was preparing his shadow ministry. Abbott’s strategy in putting Joyce into Finance was intended to exploit Joyce’s fabled “retail politics” skills to sell a message the Coalition had failed miserably to sell since the start of the GFC — that the Government had borrowed too much. Joyce is doing exactly what Abbott wanted him to do — condense the debt’n’deficits message down to a line that your average pub inhabitant would understand. The ensuing chaos caused by Joyce, complete with Joe Hockey joining the line-up of commentators and analysts rebuking him, can be directly sheeted home to Abbott. Far from being out of control, Joyce is operating exactly as Abbott wanted him to. With a gallery doyen such as Michelle Grattan coming out today and calling for Joyce to be dispatched, Abbott now has a real problem. On radio this morning, Joyce was sticking closely to his talking points on the debt default issue — and sounding exactly like any of his more robotic colleagues. But Joyce is only the idiot fringe example of the Coalition’s difficulty. The trouble with the debt’n’deficits narrative isn’t that they haven’t found the right way to tell it, it’s that it’s complete nonsense. That’s why Hockey was making a fool of himself this morning over the issue. Hockey this morning claimed the RBA backed his claim that Government borrowing was pushing up interest rates and crowding out business. There is a danger of crowding out — that means because the Government is borrowing so much money in financial markets its squeezing small business which isn’t able to compete with the 800lb gorilla known as the Australian Government to borrow money. Hopefully Hockey knows this is complete rubbish and is simply being political, otherwise the Coalition is in deeper trouble on economics than we’d hitherto suspected. The RBA has said that business credit has indeed fallen over the past year, mostly due  — duh — to the GFC. “In large part, the decline in business credit over the past year reflects the repayment of bank loans by listed corporates, mostly funded by equity raisings, with companies reducing their leverage. Corporates that continued to raise debt funding during 2009 tended to do so in non-intermediated markets, rather than through banks.” And syndicated lending actually went up in the December quarter, when interest rates were rising. Moreover, as the RBA said vis-à-vis small business, “the contraction in business credit over recent quarters has been more pronounced for large businesses than for small businesses”. Crowding out because of Government borrowing simply isn’t happening, at least according to the RBA. Plus there’s the painfully simple truth that Australia has the lowest debt in the OECD — indeed, as Shane Oliver has shown has a level of debt that is not merely a fraction of those no-hopers in the OECD, but a fraction of that of emerging economies. If Hockey concentrated on the restructuring of the banking sector and the ensuing shrinkage of competition over the past 12 months, he might be onto something on business lending. There’s a perfectly good case to be made by the Opposition that the Government has failed to support competition in the banking sector out of fear of the impacts of the GFC, and should be moving more quickly to support greater competition. Hockey has made this argument before when he suggested in mid-2009 that the Government guarantee investment-grade mortgage-backed securities. But that doesn’t fit the debt’n’deficits narrative that the Coalition has been flogging since Malcolm Turnbull’s fateful decision to oppose the second stimulus package. Indeed, it might complicate the issue and suggest economics couldn’t be condensed to a bunch of folksy utterances about how borrowing is evil. And to think Hockey is supposed to be the one with economic credibility.[/b] http://www.crikey.com.au/2010/02/10/joyce-is-only-at-the-extreme-end-of-a-nonsensical-argument/ A FUTURE ABBOTT GOVT = FUTURE DEBACLE ABBOTT PAST JUDGEMENT AS BAD AS PRESENT JUDGEMENT N'

Ad astra

20/03/2013nasking Tony Abbott is always right at the time, but later is never prepared to wear his errors of judgement, although he pillories Julia Gillard about what he likes to describe as her errors.

nasking

20/03/2013 Ad, INDEED...ABBOTT IS A WALKING DISASTER. THAT'S WHY HE DIDN'T WIN GOVT LAST TIME. NOR DID HE GET THE SAME LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE THAT PM GILLARD DID DURING THE LEADERSHIP BALLOTS. HE BARELY GOT THE LEADERSHIP...ONE VOTE. GILLARD WON A BIG MAJORITY. TELLS ME A LOT. N'

nasking

20/03/2013 ANDREW BOLT IS A NEWS LTD, MURDOCH MAN...RIGHT?: [b]Controversy and criticism Leak of intelligence document In June 2003, Bolt published an article criticising Andrew Wilkie in which he quoted from a classified intelligence document written by Wilkie as an intelligence analyst for the Office of National Assessments. It was claimed, but never proven, that someone in Foreign Minister Alexander Downer's office had leaked the document to Bolt.[9] A spokesperson for the Australian Federal Police said that they did not have any evidence to identify the culprit[/b] Wikipedia ANDREW WILKIE HAS BEEN GROTESQUELY DUMPED ON VARIOUS TIMES BY NEWS LTD...BY EVEN THE TASMANIAN PAPER. I CAN'T UNDERSTAND WHY THIS GOOD INDIVIDUAL IS HESITATING ON MEDIA REFORM. N'

nasking

20/03/2013 AWKWARD: JOYCE A PROUD MAROON 15 June, 2006 A gutsy Maroon’s victory in last night’s second State of Origin was music to the ears of Queensland Nationals Senator Barnaby Joyce. “I may have been in Canberra last night, but I was certainly focused on Suncorp Stadium,” said Senator Joyce. “The boys come out fighting hard from the kick off and showed great strength and resilience to keep the Blues at bay.” “The forwards played a solid game and kept the paddock open for the free flowing Lockyer and the like to punish the Blues.” “[b]I look forward to yet another Blues flogging in Melbourne in a few weeks.[/b]” http://www.barnabyjoyce.com.au/News/AllMediaReleases/tabid/74/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/133/Joyce-a-proud-Maroon.aspx BLUES FAN NOW IS HE? OPPORTUNIST? N'

lyn

20/03/2013Hi Ad, Thankyou for your new post brilliant and totally engrossing. You teach us so much Ad Astra what would we do without you. I agree Ad Mike Seccombe is a good writer and I also enjoy his opinion. Patricia @ 10.57am a big hello to you. I have had the same problem as you with my Gravatar and I feel the same as you. It does feel awful having that dreadful face on the page all day. Also one day I forgot my full stop. The other problem is my details are not staying in the box as they did before, I have to re-enter everytime I post. If Christopher Pyne wants the Parliament to sit another week, there would definitely be an ulterior motive. Who would have thought Sky News would be reporting this. Actually should be on the front pages of the Newspapers today: One Nation co-founder to sue Tony Abbott, Sky News co-founder of the One Nation Party, David Ettridge, is planning to sue federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott for damages of more than $1.5 million. http://www.skynews.com.au/topstories/article.aspx?id=855918 No Fibs @geeksrulz Mr Pyne objects to misogyny label by yelling at a woman at the top of his voice. http://youtu.be/YCkAsE0BX88 #misogyny Barry Tucker Pyne wants House to sit another week. Maybe they meant next Wednesday. Daniel Hirst @ The Greens say they have reached agreement with Gillard government over media reform. Details at a 12.45 media conference Zac Spitzer ‏@zackster 20m It was clear that once @JuliaGillard got involved with negotiating the passing of the media reforms, they were going to pass :):):)

lawriejay

20/03/2013Thought you'd like to be informed that this address is no longer active : From: Gillard, Julia (MP) <Julia.Gillard.MP@aph.gov.au> Subject: Prime Minister Auto Reply Date: 20 March 2013 11:39:13 AM AEDT To:Thank you for your interest in corresponding with the Prime Minister, the email address Julia.gillard.mp@aph.gov.au is no longer an active address. To contact the Prime Minister please go to www.pm.gov.au and use the 'Contact the Prime Minister' facility.

nasking

20/03/2013 POWERFUL POST: [b]I write this letter, my last letter, to you, Mr. Bush and Mr. Cheney. I write not because I think you grasp the terrible human and moral consequences of your lies, manipulation and thirst for wealth and power. I write this letter because, before my own death, I want to make it clear that I, and hundreds of thousands of my fellow veterans, along with millions of my fellow citizens, along with hundreds of millions more in Iraq and the Middle East, know fully who you are and what you have done. You may evade justice but in our eyes you are each guilty of egregious war crimes, of plunder and, finally, of murder, including the murder of thousands of young Americans—my fellow veterans—whose future you stole. Your positions of authority, your millions of dollars of personal wealth, your public relations consultants, your privilege and your power cannot mask the hollowness of your character. You sent us to fight and die in Iraq after you, Mr. Cheney, dodged the draft in Vietnam, and you, Mr. Bush, went AWOL from your National Guard unit. Your cowardice and selfishness were established decades ago. You were not willing to risk yourselves for our nation but you sent hundreds of thousands of young men and women to be sacrificed in a senseless war with no more thought than it takes to put out the garbage. I joined the Army two days after the 9/11 attacks. I joined the Army because our country had been attacked. I wanted to strike back at those who had killed some 3,000 of my fellow citizens. I did not join the Army to go to Iraq, a country that had no part in the September 2001 attacks and did not pose a threat to its neighbors, much less to the United States. I did not join the Army to “liberate” Iraqis or to shut down mythical weapons-of-mass-destruction facilities or to implant what you cynically called “democracy” in Baghdad and the Middle East. I did not join the Army to rebuild Iraq, which at the time you told us could be paid for by Iraq’s oil revenues. Instead, this war has cost the United States over $3 trillion. I especially did not join the Army to carry out pre-emptive war. Pre-emptive war is illegal under international law. And as a soldier in Iraq I was, I now know, abetting your idiocy and your crimes. The Iraq War is the largest strategic blunder in U.S. history. It obliterated the balance of power in the Middle East. It installed a corrupt and brutal pro-Iranian government in Baghdad, one cemented in power through the use of torture, death squads and terror. And it has left Iran as the dominant force in the region. On every level—moral, strategic, military and economic—Iraq was a failure. And it was you, Mr. Bush and Mr. Cheney, who started this war. It is you who should pay the consequences.[/b] http://www.truthdig.com/dig/item/the_last_letter_20130318/ MY WIFE AND I WERE DISGUSTED WITH PETER REITH'S CALLOUS RESPONSE WHEN QUESTIONED ABOUT THE IRAQ WAR ON THE DRUM YESTERDAY. TYPICAL HOWARD LIB. THE LIBERAL OLD GUARD STILL DOMINATE UNDER ABBOTT'S LEADERSHIP. N'

KHTAGH

20/03/2013AA As other have stated, very thought provoking. Has anyone actually got Joe Hockey to clarify his [i]'sense of entitlement'[/i] statement, was he talking about middle class welfare, or was he actually talking about lower class welfare? pensions etc. If it was middle class he was referring to why did he carry on so much about the cuts to the baby bonus like he did?

nasking

20/03/2013 [b]AUSTERITY MEASURES KILLER FOR TORIES: Last week a poll commissioned by Tory backer Lord Ashcroft warned Labour would trounce the Tories with a majority of 109 if General Elections were held tomorrow.[/b] http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/384870/25-Tory-MPs-looking-for-another-job N'

Janet (jan@j4gypsy)

20/03/2013 G’day all. A grab of Twitterstuff from today so far. Twitter is running very fast in the last few days, as you can imagine from Lynnie’s blog links. Blink, and the universe changes :-). [b]Twitterati[/b] [i]Kiera ‏@KieraGorden[/i] @JuliaGillard Happy 1000 days in office Prime Minister. May there be a thousand more. #AusPol pic.twitter.com/HrmxMV7S6H Retweeted by Geri [i]visivoz ‏@visivoz3h[/i] . @JuliaGillard Well done! Higher pay - just reward for valued childcare workers. Kids benefit from qualified, stable staffing. [i]Maybe ‏@Maybeee2011[/i] This is a win! RT @mjohnstone90 BREAKING: Government media reform bill related to ABC & SBS charters voted through house #auspol [i]Sabra Lane ‏@SabraLane46m[/i] Bob Katter announcing 3 commissioners will oversee the press / mergers: to be appointed by a panel of 12 people. [i]Mari R ‏@randlight1m[/i] Tony Windsor tells AM programme there’s a 70% chance of the public interest media advocate being adopted with amendments News Ltd frenzy? [i]Major Major ‏@defenseAU[/i] After more than 100 hours an agreement means, that for the first time the British press regulation will be subject to an element of statute. [i]Alastair Campbell ‏@campbellclaret[/i] The dishonest reporting of nearly all the papers re Leveson continues. Strongly suggest people go online to read Charter and HoC debate [i]Craig Emerson MP ‏@CraigEmersonMP[/i] I assume Daily Telegraph considers the surging stock market to be a catastrophe, along with trend growth & more than 130,000 new jobs #qt [i]Bernard Keane ‏@BernardKeane8m[/i] peak derp reached - Fairfax articles quoting their own editors on leadership speculation [i]Simon O'Toole ‏@drsimmo3m[/i] @BernardKeane Quality journalism right there. Who said the move to tabloid format would be a backwards step? [i]Mark Whalan ‏@MWhalan[/i] Journalists act as gatekeepers who have captured 'Truth is whatever we say it is' and squeal when public demand regulation. [i]Ningbojoe ‏@ningbojoe[/i] After Pyne's angry display today, no doubt who is bringing Parliament into disrespect. #auspol [i]Angela Lo Rosso ‏@AngelaLoRosso9h[/i] Simon Crean? Bottom of barrel now, totally desperate media. Nice false flag to stop people from chatting about Pyne's Meltdown, lol. #auspol [i]Robert Oakeshott MP ‏@OakeyMP12h[/i] As stated before,the reach of EObeid went beyond one political party.And is one of reasons why I'm now Independent MP. Good luck Tony Windsor [i]AshGhebranious ‏@AshGhebranious8m[/i] Gee. I thought Abbott was 100% behind #Torbay only a few months ago. Weather vane time #auspol [i]Mark Travers ‏@mark_travers6m[/i] So @TonyAbbottMHR publicly backs Torbay, Brough & Sinodinos. How's that 'judgement' thing going for you Tony? #auspol [i]Andrew Elder ‏@awelder Protected account1m[/i] @MWhalan Turnbull has been craven before Murdoch, Telstra. Learnt at the feet of KPacker @Matthew_J_Berry @LachlanFHarris [i]TheFinnigans天地有道人无道 ‏@Thefinnigans4m[/i] Oh Dear, Tony Abbott walks away again from the Press when the tough questions on the chaos of LNP started [b]Twitterverse[/b] [i]Digital Parents Aus ‏@DigiParentsAUS1h[/i] Watch the clip here: http://www.edenriley.com/2013/03/so-this-blogger-walks-into-kirribilli.html?m=1 … #edenmeetsthePM #DPCON13 [i]Townsville Labor ‏@TownsvilleLabor[/i] Go Albo!!! - http://www.townsvillelabor.org/1/post/2013/03/go-albo.html … @AlboMP #auspol #nqpol #nqlabor [i]Paul Krugman ‏@NYTimeskrugman5h[/i] Shorter Cyprus http://nyti.ms/WBnqLh [i]Stephen Koukoulas ‏@TheKouk6m[/i] My Business Spectator column today: Cyprus shoots itself in the foot http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/3/20/european-crisis/cyprus-shoots-itself-foot … @businessspec [i]Greg Jericho ‏@GrogsGamut[/i] Me RT @ABCthedrum: Australian consumers have good reason to be confident: http://bit.ly/ZsNubr [i]Agnes Mack ‏@AgnessMack1h[/i] "voters aren't falling over themselves to reward the Gillard government for its world-beating economic credentials' http://bit.ly/15Zi9Qt Expand [i]Matt Cowgill ‏@MattCowgill6m[/i] Restrictions on housing construction hurt low-paid workers http://j.mp/15YLSJe [i]AshGhebranious ‏@AshGhebranious[/i] @tim_chr @tim_chr http://is.gd/VtNTvR [i]chris murphy ‏@chrismurphys11m[/i] World Worst? Murdoch News Ltd propaganda rag The Australian. All 7 Page1 articles &cartoon attack LAB Govt #auspol https://twitter.com/chrismurphys/status/314110943502143488/photo/1 [i]chris murphy ‏@chrismurphys2h[/i] The disgraceful dishonest misuse of freedom of speech to overwhelm the electorate. NewsLtd terrorism. #auspol https://twitter.com/chrismurphys/status/314086428709621760/photo/1 [i]Victoria Rollison ‏@Vic_Rollison9h[/i] Has News Ltd been hacked? This http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/3/19/politics/worst-government-ever-not-yet … and this http://m.couriermail.com.au/news/opinion/swamped-by-politics-of-dishonesty/story-e6frerc6-1226600078631 … What is going on? [i]LaborForRefugees ‏@labor4refugees1[/i] #Australia #auspol Libs Kick Off Border Protection Campaign #refugees #AsylumSeekers... http://fb.me/1cNUXRLtl [i]margo kingston ‏@margokingston18h[/i] In Britain, 'the press is free, but balance tilted a little in favour of the citizen against bare-knuckle thuggery'. http://m.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/18/will-britains-press-repent-its-nasty-ways … [i]Peter Clarke ‏@MediaActive1m[/i] Australian Media Reform legislation analysis from @MargaretSimons http://bit.ly/15WVBQj @journalism_melb @crikey_news #nct13 [i]Peter Clarke ‏@MediaActive39m[/i] That media reform legislation moves bumping thru the parliamentary obstacle course http://www.crikey.com.au/?p=357112 @BernardKeane #nct13 @crikey_news [i]El ‏@bluntshovels9m[/i] As usual, @latingle asks the right questions on the #leadershit. What would really happen if PM Gillard is ousted? http://www.afr.com/p/national/mission_impossible_heal_labor_yBzb3ZGJiEFSQW34UzU0SK … [i]El ‏@bluntshovels3m[/i] Would rather read pieces like this, on Torbay and Obeid, from @smurray38 any day, than the rubbish around today. http://boilermakerbill.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/a-nationals-mps-take-on-obeid-and-torbay-from-the-parliamentary-record/ … [i]Libtard Banshee ‏@LibtardBanshee1h[/i] OH MY! #auspol RT @margokingston1: EXCLUSIVE: Perrett urges AFP to investigate #Ashby now, adds Abetz to list http://wp.me/p2WWGt-HR [i]Laurie Kidd ‏@KiddCaptain Protected account7m[/i] Australia is not ready for the next big dry http://theconversation.edu.au/australia-is-not-ready-for-the-next-big-dry-12819 … via @conversationedu

nasking

20/03/2013 ARE THE UK TORIES GIVING US AN IDEA OF WHAT EDUCATION WOULD BE LIKE UNDER CHRISTOPHER PYNE AS EDUCATION MINISTER?: [b]100 academics savage Education Secretary Michael Gove for 'conveyor-belt curriculum' for schools[/b] [b]Michael Gove’s proposed new national curriculum will severely damage education standards by insisting children learn “endless lists of spellings, facts and rules”, experts are warning. In a letter to The Independent, 100 education academics warn that the new curriculum promotes “rote learning without understanding” and demands “too much too young”. The academics, all of whom are either professors of education or teach in university education departments, write: “This mountain of data will not develop children’s ability to think – including problem-solving, critical understanding and creativity.” Their intervention means the Education Secretary faces dissent on yet another front over his education reforms – coming just 36 hours after teachers’ leaders warned of strike action over plans to squeeze their pensions and end automatic annual incremental pay rises for the profession, plus opposition to his plans to force under-performing schools to become academies. The signatories to the letter, who include leading figures in the world of academia such as Professor Terry Wrigley, from Leeds Metropolitan University, who co-ordinated the letter with Professor Michael Bassey from Nottingham Trent University, said: “A system which is very, very heavily prescribed and which encourages cramming through tests actually reduces fairly sharply the development of thinking. The pupils memorise just enough detail to get over the hurdle of the tests.” Professor Wrigley added: “I think if these reforms go ahead it will be miserable for the children. Secondly, I think it will put further emphasis on memorisation and rote learning rather than understanding.” The academics’ intervention also follows a controversy over changes planned for the history curriculum – where historians and teachers claim the proposals neglect world history in favour of the chronological learning of facts about British history. Sir Richard Evans, Regius Professor of history at Cambridge University, said they would restore “rote learning of the patriotic stocking-fillers so beloved of traditionalists”.[/b] http://www.independent.co.uk/news/education/education-news/100-academics-savage-education-secretary-michael-gove-for-conveyorbelt-curriculum-for-schools-8541262.html NOT GOOD...NOT GOOD AT ALL. EDUCATION WARFARE. N'

nasking

20/03/2013 LYN AND JANET, TOP LINKS AND TWEETS...GREAT WORK. THREE APT TWEETS: [b]Bernard Keane ‏@BernardKeane8m peak derp reached - Fairfax articles quoting their own editors on leadership speculation chris murphy ‏@chrismurphys2h The disgraceful dishonest misuse of freedom of speech to overwhelm the electorate. NewsLtd terrorism. #auspol twitter.com/.../1 margo kingston ‏@margokingston18h In Britain, 'the press is free, but balance tilted a little in favour of the citizen against bare-knuckle thuggery'. m.guardian.co.uk/.../will-britains-press-repent-its-nasty-ways … [/b] INDEED. AUSSIE COALITION ARE A SAD CASE BURYING HEAD IN SAND. N'

nasking

20/03/2013 MY RESPECT FOR ANDREW WILKIE JUST TOOK A NOSE-DIVE...HAVING SUPPORTED HIM THRU THICK AND THIN OVER MANY YEARS I'M VERY DISAPPOINTED. SEEMS HE'S NOT THE HERO I THOUGHT HE WAS. I WONDER IF MEDIA APPLIED PRESSURE? FANCY LETTING THE MSM WHO HAVE BASHED HIM TIME AND TIME AGAIN OFF THE HOOK. SAD. PERHAPS HE'S HAD TOO MANY BATTLES AND GOT SCARED. CAN HAPPEN. HIS COMMENTS HAVE CERTAINLY GOT SKY NEWS EXCITED...SLOBBERING LIKE DESPERATE DOGS. NOT SURE HE INTENDED TO HELP THE LIKES OF THEM. PERHAPS NEWS LTD HAS DONE A DEAL WITH HIM? THAT WOULD BE TRAGIC? N'

Catching up

20/03/2013Nasking, felt the same. Not that I had much time for him. Like many others, blames others when things go wrong. Still blaming the PM for not delivering his impossible gambling bill. Also, looking after his own seat. Probably believes there are votes in dumping the PM.

nasking

20/03/2013 [b]Also, looking after his own seat. Probably believes there are votes in dumping the PM.[/b] CU, POLITICS...A RUTHLESS GAME AIN'T IT? WELL, LET'S HOPE PM GILLARD CAN NEGOTIATE HER WAY INTO ANOTHER VICTORY. IF NOT...THE BELLS OF DOOM WILL BE RINGING. I'D HATE TO SEE THAT BULLY BOY MURDOCH AND HIS GREEDY VAMPS WIN AGAIN. WILL MAKE AUSTRALIA A LARFING STOCK AFTER THE REFORMS IN THE UK. WE'LL LOOK LIKE A COUNTRY UNDER THE HEEL OF A MEDIA BARON. AND MINING BARONS. SAD. N'

lyn

20/03/2013Hi Janet our little Gypsy, Your Twitterverse is absolutely magnificent, thankyou very very much for your collection of important information. You are right Janie the Twitter stream is faster than the traffic on Pitt Street Sydney and the bloggers are churning out the facts in fast forward. Thankyou 2353 and Nasking ♥ ♥ A few more snippits for you:- Paul Syvret ‏@PSyvret 10s Prime Minister slams Abbott's grasp on global economics during Question Time | The Courier Mail Relive all the action from today's Question Time as reported via Twitter by national political reporters Malcolm Farr and Jessica Marszalek below http://www.news.com.au/national-news/prime-minister-slams-tony-abbotts-grasp-on-global-economics-during-question-time/story-fncynjr2-1226601519994 Thomson may be key to passing media reform laws @ 3:22PM http://www.nationaltimes.com.au/opinion/political-news/thomson-may-be-key-to-passing-media-reform-laws-20130320-2geje.html Steve Cannane ‏@SteveCannane 17m David Marr also has some new revelations about the alleged Tony Abbott 'punch'.thedrum :):):)

Ad astra

20/03/2013Hi Lyn Thank you for your very kind remarks. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. It seems to have evoked thoughtful responses. I’m still working through this morning’s links. I’ve been watching the NPC address, QT and the doorstops by Bob Katter and Andrew Wilkie – how time flies. The media frenzy around what they are urging – a leadership change – continues unabated. This is their usual behaviour. What is annoying is that Labor figures can’t resist talking to the piranhas, thereby exacerbating their agitation. I see Laura Tingle has been caught up in it, which shows how widespread the feeding frenzy has become. It’s hard enough for PMJG to have to fight a grossly antagonistic media, without having to cope with the subversion in her own ranks. BTW, I wonder how much airtime David Ettridge’s suing of Tony Abbott will get! Janet Thank you for the Twittertalk; what an interesting collection. The Burgess and Svyret articles are among the very few in the MSM that tell it the way it is. KHTAGH Thank you for your kind comment. I believe that Hockey was referring to middle class welfare, but of course it supports poorer folk too. Labor is trying to redistribute it from the middle class to the poor, but I doubt if that would be Hockey’s idea.

nasking

20/03/2013 COULD ROB OAKESHOTT BE A HERO...AGAIN? HOPE SO. N'

Michael

20/03/2013How to vote? First, examine your values. Labor. Well, duhh, have you watched Coalition politicians?

Catching up

20/03/2013Ad astra, we know that Hockey does not mean to the poor. We know this, because he has condemned every saving Labor has made in this regard, promising to restore it. As for Labor MP's talking to the media. I read somewhere that most are now not answering their calls. If I was an MP, I would be tempted to lead them on. Suspect that happened last week. Trouble is, it could backfire.

MWS

20/03/2013Has this article by John Watson been mentioned today? http://www.nationaltimes.com.au/opinion/politics/penchant-for-picking-a-winner-is-poll-waffle-20130320-2ge6q.html Sorry, haven't been around much and haven't had time to read everybody's comments. I promise I will try harder in future.

Ad astra

20/03/2013Folks To bring you up to date with the final WA election results, the LNP won 38 seats, Labor 21. Swing to LNP: 9.9%. Swing against Labor: 2.7%

Catching up

20/03/201321 seats. That is better than Smith hoped for. Not as big landslide that was made out. In fact many seats were on less than 1 % margin. Not much of a swing for them to go.

Pikiranku

20/03/2013TT I mightn't look like Mary Lee (my gravatar) but I'm aiming to be like her - a strong and feisty Labor woman. She was a pioneer in a great tradition. Strong and feisty - that's the new me! Love it! AA Excellent post, as always. Can't these entrepeneurial turkeys see that if the people have no money they themselves will have no customers? The trouble is that they're all going for the short-term quick kill - make as much money as possible as quickly as possible, no matter who you crush along the way. That's one of the major differences between the Labor approach and the LNP - as much as it's possible in our system Labor takes a long-term view, the Libs don't look past the next election. That's why most of the major infrastructure in this country has been built by Labor.

Gravel

20/03/2013Ad Astra Looking forward to the rest of your How to vote series. So far I have to agree with Labors economic stance, which I have always done, as they are the only party that does look after the needy as opposed to the wanty. Belated Birthday Wishes for yesterday, hope you had a wonderful day, and many more to come.

LadyInRed

20/03/2013Ad another great piece pointing out the differences between the ideology of each of the parties. I hate it when people say they are the same as each other because clearly they are not. I would like to add something I read in Goerge Lakoff's [i]Don't think of the Elephant! Know your values and Frame the Debate[/i] Basically it was our parents that paid for much of the infrastructure that we enjoy today, highways, ports, schools, education, communications systems, the internet, airports etc. Our taxes go to improve and continue to develop these. One day we can add the NBN to this list. [i] Perhaps Bill Gates Sr. said it best. In arguing to keep the inheritance tax, he pointed out that he and Bill Jr, did not invent the internet.[/i] There is no such thing as a self-made man (or woman), ultimately every successful person used tax payer funded infrastructure to get where they are : the banking system, the Reserve Bank, treasury, the justice system, stable government...the list goes on. One day people will become rich or richer off the back of the NBN. So whenever I here Gina, or Clive or Twiggy bang on about what they bring to this country I see red. There is no such thing as self-made person.

Tom of Melbourne

20/03/2013[i]” Not as big landslide that was made out.”[/i] Really???? • The Liberals increase their vote by almost 10% • They have about twice as many seats as the ALP And it’s not so bad?? Bizarre.

Tom of Melbourne

20/03/2013[quote] MY RESPECT FOR ANDREW WILKIE JUST TOOK A NOSE-DIVE...[/quote] Wilkie won’t be railroaded. Gillard and Conroy sought to truncate the ability of the parliament to scrutinize the package. They created artificial pressure, they tried devious political tactics. Their political strategy has been incompetent, they’re reaping what they have sown.

ian

20/03/2013" COULD ROB OAKESHOTT BE A HERO...AGAIN? HOPE SO. " It is my sad duty to inform you that, after exercising due diligence, the above mentioned hope has decided to reside in the back pocket of corporate media interests. Sorry.

Jason

20/03/2013Ian, The bill was withdrawn tonight, so they can work on him and the others (wilkie) excluded tomorrow.

ian

20/03/2013Jason, He had a meeting with Lachlan Murdoch late last week. To me, that says it all.

Mangrove Jack

20/03/2013I'm sorry AA, but I just have to nail this (in an otherwise great read): [quote]Labor pushed for a surplus for the current financial year in the belief that it was prudent economic policy to return to surplus after a period of stimulus. [b]And it was[/b].[/quote] I realise this is what "reasonable" folk believe, that we should balance the budget "over the cycle" but it has no validity.It is dead wrong. The truth is that whilst ever the external sector is in deficit (as it usually is) a budget surplus has to come at the expense of a private sector deficit. This was the situation that obtained during the Costello surpluses. GDP growth was only achieved by the private sector racking up record debt. This outcome is dictated by the remorseless arithmetic of the Sectoral Balance of the National Accounts. If we "progressives" want to take on the conservatives on what they believe, as a matter of faith, is their patch, then we should do some homework and learn some economics.

Jason

20/03/2013ian, Wilkie must think 100% of nothing is better than 50+% of something! Don't know what murdoch offered but what ever happens at the next election I doubt Wilkie Thomson slipper will be in the positions they're in now!

Ad astra

20/03/2013MWS Thanks - grist to the mill for my next piece, just started: [i]Polls persistently poison politics[/i]

Janet (jan@j4gypsy)

20/03/2013 Ian at Just asked Rob Oakeshott on Twitter whether he 'met Lachlan Murdoch last week. This was his reply: Janmah ‏@j4gypsy @SpaceKidette @OakeyMP @mahootna2 @margokingston1 Rob, did you meet with Lachlan Murdoch last week? And if so, can you tell us why? Robert Oakeshott MP ‏@OakeyMP @j4gypsy @SpaceKidette @mahootna2 @margokingston1 I met 10, 9, 7, win, sbs, content providers (actors,writers, producers etc), et al. On his Twitterstream in last couple of days he also stated that he met with and seemed to be in agreement with the MEAA, as well.

Ad astra

20/03/2013Pikiranku Thank you for your kind words. You are right. Labor takes the long view and tackles infrastructure. Liberals look for short-term gains, election bribes, and quick fixes. Their major reforms are far and few between. The GST was one. Gravel Thank you. As polls are mesmerizing everyone at present, my next piece will deviate from the values theme to address this pathological obsession. I did have a great birthday. LadyinRed Thank you for your kind comment. I see that George Lakoff's [i]Don't think of the Elephant! Know your values and Frame the Debate[/i] is on Amazon. I have an Amazon voucher, so I will buy it. Mangrove Jack Thank you for your comment. You make an interesting economic argument. Can you give me a link to an authoritative exposition that supports your contention about surplus budgets? I’d be interested to read it.

Tom of Melbourne

20/03/2013The independents don’t like their image that they’re continually rounded up by the government. That’s the main reason Oakeshott won’t provide support. Gillard and Conroy tried to put them under intense pressure; they decided not to capitulate to the government’s contrived time frame. Oakeshott simply showed that he retains a small about of independence. Gillard and Conroy have shown that they are dishonest and incompetent. Gillard has to go.

Jason

20/03/2013ToM, If you say so! You are becoming more and more unhinged every day!

Tom of Melbourne

20/03/2013Jason - “unhinged” is a very restrained insult from you. You’re usually inclined to try to use insults that focus on sexual orientation or similar.

ian

20/03/2013' Robert Oakeshott MP ‏@OakeyMP @j4gypsy @SpaceKidette @mahootna2 @margokingston1 I met 10, 9, 7, win, sbs, content providers (actors,writers, producers etc), et al. and, of course, Lachlan Murdoch is the impoverished son of a provincial newspaper propietor. Channel 10..Murdoch on the board, close editorial association with News Ltd, Channel 9..owned by an international hedge fund, Channel 7..owned by Stokes, also owner of " The West Australian "daily newspaper in Perth. Content providers..writers, actors, producers..many employed by Shine productions, owned by Murdochs, started by Murdochs daughter..sold to News Ltd for approx $260 million..and then there is the Fox entertainment conglomerate. Yeh Rob, you really listened to the man/woman/child in the street and decided what was in their best interests. Thanks for that.

jane

21/03/2013Ad astra, I'm quite surprised at the WA results. The way the pundits were talking, i expected that labor would only manage to win about 10 seats, so 21 is quite a pleasant surprise. Also the swing against labor is much lower that I expected, given all the hooha from various quarters. Gives one hope for the next election and federally. I wonder why the Independents, particularly Thomson and Wilkie who have been pilloried unmercifully by the msm, refuse to back Conroy's legislation? Does anybody have any thoughts on the matter? Trolls need not apply.

bob macalba

21/03/2013Janet thanks for tweeting Oakeshott, thought i was reading a limited news headline till you sorted it. cheers, bloody rumors, you wonder how they get started

lyn

21/03/2013Today’s Links So who is threatening our democracy? @margokingston1 Is that the truth or did you read it in The Daily Telegraph? http://australiansforhonestpolitics.wordpress.com/2013/03/20/so-who-is-threatening-our-democr Katter’s Babushka Media Reform by @MikeSeccombe It looked like he’d changed his mind. But in fact he was just rereading what he’d just written,to remind himself of what he thought. http://powerhouse.theglobalmail.org/katters-babushka-media-reform/ Re-inventing Tony: why Abbott’s attempt to woo women doesn’t bear scrutiny by Kate Gleeson Team Abbott are selling a mixed message. On one hand, he’s definitely a changed man. On the other, he’s been misunderstood all along. http://theconversation.edu.au/re-inventing-tony-why-abbotts-attempt-to-woo-women-doesnt-bear- Press Freedom For Whom? By Trevor Grant Murdoch’s record on using his media interests as pay-back against governments who fall from favour is unsurpassed. http://newmatilda.com/2013/03/20/press-freedom-whom gossip sheets by Gary Suer-Thompson They are engaged in a policy of destabilization of the Gillard Government; that is regime change in favour of an Abbott Coalition Government. see themselves as king makers who have the rights of kings http://www.sauer-thompson.com/archives/opinion/2013/03/gossip-sheets Media Bias and Free Speech by johnlord2013 @MigloMT It is about time someone stood up to the distortions, contradictions and outright lies of the poisonous and extremist Murdoch empire and mainstream media in general http://theaimn.com/2013/03/20/media-bias-and-free-speech/ In Unity is Strength by @KayRollison Labor’s ties to the union movement are being used as yet another stick with which the mainstream media and the Opposition beat the Labor government http://theaimn.com/2013/03/20/in-unity-is-strength/ Why we have Labor leadership spills and stoushes; and how to avoid them by @MarkBahnisch http://larvatusprodeo.net/archives/2013/03/why-we-have-labor-leadership-spills-and-stoushes-and-how-to- Press regulatory ‘stick’ so tough it’s licensing #mediareforms by @JournLaw political and commercial vested interests drown out compelling and principledarguments for free expression in this Australian media http://journlaw.com/2013/03/20/press-regulatory-stick-so-tough-its-licensing-mediareforms/ Drum piece- Plus a look at Australian and USA’s GDP over the years by @GrogsGamut http://grogsgamut.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/drum-piece-plus-look-at-australian-and.html Economists show racism alive and well in Oz by @1RossGittins Australians aren't racist - and even if some people are, you and I certainly aren't http://www.rossgittins.com/2013/03/economists-show-racism-alive-and-well.html ABBOTT’S SLUSH FUND: Tony Abbott helped pole-axe One Nation bigots, now they want revenge in court by @vexnews the non-reporting is certainly an interesting insight into the self-censorship that is frequently practised by media, http://www.vexnews.com/2013/03/abbotts-slush-fund-tony-abbott-helped-pole-axe-one-nation-bigots-now-they- Trucks, Transport and Tony by @ThePubBlog the same media lets Tony Abbott get away with all his stunts, because he is the Anointed One, and they will be paid back handsomely when he gets into power and hands over the keys to the NBN, http://pbxmastragics.com/2013/03/20/trucks-transport-and-tony/ Three men and a PM- who should lead the ALP- by @Cheaper_Rubies The Labor Party needs to stick with the leader they have chosen despite the polls. A change now will only remind http://cheaperthanrubies.com/2013/03/20/three-men-and-a-pm-who-should-lead-the-alp/ Facts speak for themselves, Australia still lucky country by Matthew Donovan @independentaus Time to start spreading the word and letting facts finally enter the discussion. http://www.independentaustralia.net/2013/politics/facts-speak-for-themselves-australia-still-l Tony Abbott: high anxiety by @minkel2012 onward Tony Abbott hastens all a’flurry on a road back to nowhere http://cafewhispers.wordpress.com/2013/03/20/tony-abbott-high-anxiety/ Tony Abbott's 'Australians for Honest Politics Trust' may come under the legal spotlight by @no_filter_Yamba Former One Nation Co-founder states intention to sue Liberal Party Leader Tony Abbott http://northcoastvoices.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/tony-abbotts-australians-for-honest.html What Prime Minister Gillard Told Tony Abbott About Freedom Of Speech by @turnleft2013 really about “freedom to bully governments http://turnleft2013.wordpress.com/2013/03/20/what-prime-minister-told-tony-abbott-about-freedom-of-speech/ Today’s Front Pages Australia Newspaper Front Pages for 21 March 2013 http://www.frontpagestoday.co.uk/index.cfm?PaperCountry=Australia

Gravel

21/03/2013Lyn Thanks for your great links, if I don't get time to get them here, I get them from your twitter, so I make sure I don't miss any. :-)

Truth Seeker

21/03/2013Abbott's Puppet Masters http://truthseekersmusings.wordpress.com/2013/03/20/abbotts-puppet-masters/ Cheers :grin:

Ad astra

21/03/2013LYN'S DAILY LINKS updated: http://www.thepoliticalsword.com/page/LYNS-DAILY-LINKS.aspx

janice

21/03/2013Good morning all. Great article Ad astra. Nasking, I did not expect that Wilkie would support the media laws - in my opinion he is a man out to promote himself first at all times, is a typical Tory and I wouldn't trust him as far as I could kick him. He also has a grossly inflated opinion of his own importance and I hope his electorate have sussed him out and vote him out on Sept 14th. The one I am most disappointed in is Oakeshott.

Mangrove Jack

21/03/2013Ad astra at 9.39 pm... Here's a link to our own Professor Bill Mitchell on the subject of balanced budgets: "Balancing budget over cycle is not a sound fiscal rule" http://bilbo.economicoutlook.net/blog/?p=22871#more-22871 One issue that Mitchell doesn't address in that article, and which gets conservatives hyperventilating, is the accumulating debt. So I'll just add this: It is a self imposed rule without any functional necessity that governments must issue debt to match the deficits. It is a hangover from earlier times when our currency was tied to a form of gold standard but which we abandoned in the 70's. The issuance of debt however is a nice little earner for the parasitic bond market so the practice has been kept up. Mitchell calls it corporate welfare. When Costello got rid of "The Debt" (by flogging assets) he still kept issuing Commonwealth Govt Securities to keep the bond market happy. So, contrary to the conventional wisdom, our budget should almost always be in deficit. It's the deficit that puts new money into the economy and allows the private sector to accumulate financial assets.

Mangrove Jack

21/03/2013And further to my comment above here's a little gem that would drive a stake right through the heart of the Tea Party (and its analogues down under), if 'twere better known: http://neweconomicperspectives.org/2013/02/real-dollars-and-funny-money.html An easy 5 minute read dealing with what is to most folk a mystery.

jane

21/03/2013janice @8.20am, I agree with you. Wilkie is all over the shop, refusing to compromise or discuss anything. It's all or nothing with him. And he doesn't seem, or want, to understand that although he's most likely right about things like pokie reform, with the Liars, the msm and big gambling ranged against his legislation, it's dead in the water. I'd hate to be a hostage with him in the negotiator's seat. However, why he doesn't want media reform is a mystery; it's not as though the media has at any time been kind to him. In some ways, I think he's as ratty as Bob Katter. Oakeshott is the one who has surprised me, considering the treatment he has had from the press. Ditto Thomson; probably the most surprising of all. You'd think he'd relish the chance to stick it to the msm.

Pikiranku

21/03/2013Hi Jason! Wrt your comment on Wilkie yesterday and Janice and Jane's follow-up this morning - yes, it's obvious that Wilkie would rather have 100% of nothing than 50% (or more) of something. When he spat the dummy on pokie reform he illustrated that quite clearly. If politics, as they say, is the art of the possible, then Wilkie is clearly in the wrong job. I, too, hope that the electors of Denison wake up to this in September. People complain bitterly about the rigidity of the two-party system, but it gives electors a very clear idea of what their condidates stand for. With wild-card independents - Xenophon, Wilkie, Oakeshott for eg. - you have absolutely no idea which way they're going to jump. They give independents a bad name. The only independent in the current parliament whom I have real respect for is the one whose political views are probably furthest from my own and that's Tony Windsor. He may be far too conservative for my taste but I have great belief in his integrity, his concern for the general good and his common sense. But generally speaking, political (party) discipline = predictability, and you can give me that any day when I'm making a voting decision.

Ad astra

21/03/2013janice Thank you for your kind comment. Mangrove Jack Thank you for the link to the [i]billy blog[/i] article by Bill Mitchell. I read it through but must admit towards the end I found his formulas hard to fathom. But that’s not surprising – I’m not an economist. It is a different take on the merits of budget surpluses, to which attention should be given. I see that the commenters don’t all agree with Bill’s thesis. Economics is a difficult area of study where there are many opposing views; it’s hard for the ordinary person to know who is right. Because of the large number of variables that impinge upon economic activity, maybe there is no absolute right or wrong. The article by Devin Smith was an informative read; his conclusion seems to support your view of surplus and debt. Thank you for going to the trouble to dig these articles out for me. I have bookmarked them for reference. Although an amateur at economics, I do enjoy studying it.

Ad astra

21/03/2013janice Thank you for your kind comment. Mangrove Jack Thank you for the link to the [i]billy blog[/i] article by Bill Mitchell. I read it through but must admit towards the end I found his formulas hard to fathom. But that’s not surprising – I’m not an economist. It is a different take on the merits of budget surpluses, to which attention should be given. I see that the commenters don’t all agree with Bill’s thesis. Economics is a difficult area of study where there are many opposing views; it’s hard for the ordinary person to know who is right. Because of the large number of variables that impinge upon economic activity, maybe there is no absolute right or wrong. The article by Devin Smith was an informative read; his conclusion seems to support your view of surplus and debt. Thank you for going to the trouble to dig these articles out for me. I have bookmarked them for reference. Although an amateur at economics, I do enjoy studying it.

Tom of Melboune

21/03/2013 • I think Rudd would possibly win an election. So it’s a choice between ALP decimation and a possible ALP win. • If Rudd won, he would be determined to take a strong roll in some internal ALP reform, sideling the union hacks that run the party. This is vital. • Rudd has previously said election of Gillard would represent a “lurch to the right” on asylum seekers. How right he was. • Rudd would represent a sense of democratisation, as people preferred him at the time of his knifing, and have maintained this opinion since. • Rudd would introduce a new Cabinet, getting rid of a range of chain draggers such as Swan. • Rudd has sent some signals that he would be supportive of marriage equality, he hasn’t painted himself into a corner the way Gillard has. Return to Rudd would provide the ALP with impetus, even if they lost they would remain a viable party. A loss under Gillard will be devastating for its viability. The likelihood is that a Rudd government would be a more transparent and progressive than the current incompetent, dishonest one.

TalkTurkey

21/03/2013Greetings Comrades, Sorry not nothing for a couple of days, I'm working on something though. But here's something I want to re-post (with Ad astra's permission.) I wish I could write music, but I can't, that's why I'm always writing parodies instead of songs. But I want to give us all a giant ear-worm that will bore into brains, unite minds, and stiffen resolve - as only fighting songs can do. But this one TT was actually challenged to do by Ad himself, it's a feisty tune, and the [i]original[/i] Lyrics are too, so the Turkey had a good template. Please let it infect and inspire you some for the second time. On March 11 at 5.24 PM last year, Ad astra posted in a reply to PatriciaWA - [i]... The Fifth Estate must support (Wayne Swan's) campaign vigorously. We look forward to rousing verses from you and TT. What about something like ‘Do you hear the people sing’ from Les Misérables? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWzmYhiu-zs [/i] On March 12 at 1.50 AM I replied: [i]Jeez Ad, sure you wouldn’t like me to write a parody of the whole of Les Mis? (It was a pleasure really, the last verse was a bit painful but!)[/i] [ From: www.metrolyrics.com/...-lyrics-les-miserables.html ] Read more: LES MISERABLES - DO YOU HEAR THE PEOPLE SING LYRICS www.metrolyrics.com/...-lyrics-les-miserables.html Copied from MetroLyrics.com [b][u]Comrades Of The Sword[/u][/b] [i]Will you heed Ad astra's call summoning Comrades of the Sword? It's an urgent plea to spread the Truth that must not be ignored! Now the greedy and the rich threaten the welfare of us all, Will you wield the Sword and answer Ad astra's call? Will you help in our campaign? This is a fight that we must win! The chance won’t come again, now raise your voice above the din! So join in the fight alongside Ad astra and Lyn! Will you heed Ad astra's call summoning Comrades of the Sword? It's an urgent plea to spread the Truth that must not be ignored! Now the greedy and the rich threaten the welfare of us all, Will you wield the Sword and answer Ad astra's call? Will you help to play your part? And will you write for all you’re worth? From Darwin down to Hobart-town, from Brisbane west to Perth, We must help save Australia to help save the rest of the Earth! Will you heed Ad astra's call summoning Comrades of the Sword? It's an urgent plea to spread the Truth that must not be ignored! Now the greedy and the rich threaten the welfare of us all, Will you wield the Sword and answer Ad astra's call?[/i] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Original lyrics [u]When Tomorrow Comes[/u] Do you hear the people sing? Singing a song of angry men? It is the music of a people who will not be slaves again! When the beating of your heart echoes the beating of the drums There is a life about to start when tomorrow comes! Will you join in our crusade? Who will be strong and stand with me? Somewhere beyond the barricade is there a world you long to see? Then join in the fight that will give you the right to be free! Do you hear the people sing? Singing a song of angry men? It is the music of a people Who will not be slaves again! When the beating of your heart echoes the beating of the drums There is a life about to start When tomorrow comes! Will you give all you can give so that our banner may advance? Some will fall and some will live: will you stand up and take your chance? The blood of the martyrs will water the meadows of France! Do you hear the people sing? Singing a song of angry men? It is the music of a people who will not be slaves again! When the beating of your heart echoes the beating of the drums There is a life about to start when tomorrow comes! [ From: www.metrolyrics.com/...-lyrics-les-miserables.html ] Read more: LES MISERABLES - DO YOU HEAR THE PEOPLE SING LYRICS www.metrolyrics.com/...-lyrics-les-miserables.html Copied from MetroLyrics.com TalkTurkey ~~~And BTW PatriciaWA answered Ad in verse in quick time too! Just go to the Archives and find it just hours later at March 12. 2012 05:00 PM: [u]DECLARING WAR IS NOT SWAN'S WAY![/u] I am so proud, and [i]inspired[/i], to be able to contribute to Ad's Blog! and I know I am far from alone.

42 long

21/03/2013Rudd is a great team player ( a team of ONE) He has so much baggage that the OPN would tear him to shreds. TurnBULL suggested he resign most days (for some reason or another) when HE was the LOTO. I could fill pages but I'm not going to provide material for his detractors. Some thought he was some kind of messiah but he was a weird guy with brainfarts and a brittle temperament,who speaks mandarin but doesn't understand chinese.

TalkTurkey

21/03/2013Abbortt following *J*U*L*I*A* in apology to forced adoptions. This filthy creep! - The man who - [i]thinking his girlfriend had given birth to his own son[/i], [b]fled to England pretending to want to be a Catholic Priest![/b] Oh the crowd has just picked up on him! He's getting the bollocking of a lifetime! [i]YIPPPPPEEEEEEEEE!!!![/i]

Pikiranku

21/03/2013What a woman! What a leader! Our amazing Julia! (Now that I've wiped away the tears and recovered enough to post.) That was just about the most moving and wonderful speech I've ever heard. And delivered with such compassion and composure! How can she do that? With all the shite flying around her, the leadership stuff, the media laws negotiations going on all night, quite apart from the day-to-day responsibilities of running the country and being on top of absolutely everything the way she is - Julia manages to deliver a speech like that! She makes me proud to be an Australian - and it's a while since I could say that.

Ad astra

21/03/2013Talk Turkey Thank you for reposting your stirring [i]Comrades of the Sword[/i]. What inspirational verse it is. The fight is ahead: against the traditional enemy, the Opposition, against a venomous media, and sadly also against the internal malcontents. Let’s hope that today will see the end of this internal disruption and a re-focus on governing in the interests of all the people, which is what PMJG has been doing all along.

Ad astra

21/03/2013Folks [b]Who could not be immensely proud of our PM, Julia Gillard, as she delivered, on behalf of the nation, the moving apology to those affected by Forced Adoption.[/b]

2353

21/03/2013Don't forget Wilkie was an army officer. He's a bit like Newman. A lot of ex-military and police can't understand shades of grey - the response has to be absolute. Sooner or later it brings them down - but they can do incredible damage prior to that. There is a perfect example of this in Newmania at the moment. You might remember that a couple of weeks after election he effectively sacked his police minister for driving while unlicenced (despite claims of not knowing his licence was suspended). Currently a LNP backbencher is under media pressure because he used to run an "independent" association of shopkeepers prior to becoming an MP. He allegedly is still running the association from his electorate office and there are claims he/his wife is being paid a high salary for doing so. Newman has done nothing. This is the absolutes at work - ditching a Minister at the first whiff of trouble versus defending stoutly a MP who on the facts reported clearly has questions to answer. In both cases, no sidelineing while the facts are determined - just a absolute action based on facts that are not in the public domain. http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/redcliffe-mp-scott-driscoll-has-been-caught-lying-to-parliament-about-phone-lines-installed-in-his-office/story-e6freoof-1226601982613

Tom of Melboune

21/03/2013Media legislation fails! The actions of Gillard and Conroy in the all or nothing ultimatum deserved to fail. Gillard committed to inclusiveness with the independents, then held a gun at their heads The tactic is typical of Gillard’s entrenched behaviour. She isn’t honest, she prefers political intrigue, pressure, double dealing. She is a true child of the ALP machine. Gillard should go.

Casablanca

21/03/2013Crean has just announced he has asked the PM to call a spill. Crean supports Rudd. Crean will run for the Deputy Leadership.

Tom of Melboune

21/03/2013Crean is participating in "baseless speculation" Rudd will have to win. Gillard is damaged beyond repair, and she has been for about 2 years.

Curi-Oz

21/03/2013Dear gods, Why is it that my first response is to thank Mr Crean (and Mr Rudd and the MSM) for giving us the next Abbott government?! Thank you Ad Astra for providing an easier means of informing the various politicians involved my feelings on the matter. Off to calm down slightly - otherwise the first drafts are likely to be incendiary *cross*

Michael

21/03/2013So Crean calls fpr a spill and says he'll stand as deputy leader. The 'deputy leader' is traditionally the country's Treasurer. Who guessed Simon Crean had such simmering leadership ambitions, 'the country can go to hell'? I remember seeing Crean on Q&A late last year. He got so tied up in answering questions from the floor that the Coalition would make mincemeat of him in a real forum.

bob macalba

21/03/2013Off to the shed to mull things over, not tuning in for at least 24hrs, bloody bloody white ants, nobody wins here, f@#$ f@#$ f@#$ poo, tuning out now

Casablanca

21/03/2013Running the Labor Party is like trying to herd a gaggle of cats. Julia Gillard has had the added burden of herding the cats on the the cross-benchers.

42 long

21/03/2013I can't feel that there is any great "depth" in the Crean Move, having watched it unfold on the ABC24. Too many whiteants. Too many unpredictable outcomes. A bit of pressure and the weakest crumble. Julia won't accede to the request I believe. Will Caucus get the 35 required to call for action? What if they don't? Nothing achieved and more damage.

Curi-Oz

21/03/2013Seeing the first accusations that it is an MSM coup. Fascinating in how it is all swirling on Twitter - lots of unimpressed tweets...

42 long

21/03/2013The MSM can take a lot of credit/blame. They play kingmaker amd witch chaser. being unelected they exceed their moral authority but like the whores they are they serve their master well. With the LieNP we have the best politicians money can buy. Similarly they majority of MSM Journo's have sold their souls for a few sheckels

janice

21/03/2013What a lot of stupid, stupid, idiots there are in caucus. They've given a great big win to the media and the coalition. If they reinstate Rudd, Labor loses my support but I won't be voting for the monkey either. Crean has gone down in my estimation - he's lost his marbles completely, especially if he thinks Rudd has changed. Someone mentioned earlier that Julia should give them all the royal salute and go see the GG and call the election pronto.

jane

21/03/2013ToM, the only problem with your solution is that Rudd was, and still would be, a terrible PM. And whoever he has in his cabinet, the end result would be the same-his removal from the PMship, because NOBODY would be able to work with him. He has a good public persona, which unfortunately does not translate to a work situation, where he has been proven to be very poor management material. He was never a uniting or energising force, ffs. If he was and had majority support from the caucus, he would STILL be PM. And he still doesn't have the numbers to roll Gillard. And his whiteanting and backgrounding have added to the general distrust of him. How can you have any confidence in someone who, instead of working to improve Labor's chances of re-election, actively conducts a campaign to undermine its chances by whiteanting, backgrounding and tattling to the opposition? And why would you reward such behaviour by promoting such a person to leader? Ask yourself whether you could possibly trust him. Everything you regurgitate about Gillard is a straight regurgitation from the Murdoch, Liars Party and shock jock handbook, known only for their lies, smear, obfuscation, FUD, unfounded allegations, rumour mongering and bullshit. And knowing what we now know about the Meredeochracy, why would you possibly take anything they say as true? And there is yet more evidence of its widespread corruption, but you still choose to parrot their propaganda? No doubt you think Turnbull should also be restored to LOTO, even though he was, and would still be, a terrible LOTO. Another one whose gigantic ego makes him impossible to work with. You say the Gillard government is corrupt and incompetent and your evidence is to parrot Liars Party and msm lies. You insist there is a "carbon tax" ignoring all evidence proving you're wrong. You insist that Gillard should have moved mountains wrt Wilkie's pokies reform, knowing full well that it would not have passed in the Lower House-no support from the Liars, or the Independents. That is not a breach of faith on Gillard's part. All the more so because pokies reform is part of the government's policy platform. Being issued with a magic wand is not included with the keys to the Lodge. If you haven't got the numbers, the bill doesn't get passed. Recognising that and being prepared to try a different approach is what good leaders and negotiators do; they don't keep doing the same thing, hoping they'll get a different result. But keep banging your head against that brick wall. All it does is confirm your inflexibility and inability to think laterally.

Casablanca

21/03/2013PM calls spill for Leadership positions at 4.30 today. Just think back to Kevin Rudd's response to the tap on his shoulder. Albeit the tap came from way out of left field, unlike the present situation. Gillard has been strong in her response to the first couple of questions. LOTO now moved for a suspension of standing orders to call for a vote of no confidence. Our fate is in the hands of Tony Windsor more than anyone else.

N'ellie May

21/03/2013Dear Ad, Lyn and all fellow travellers, Just watching our wonderful Prime mustering all her dignity during what must be a very stressful Question Time for her. She has my complete respect for the years of struggle and tireless work she has put in for the people of Australia. Having had a female PM, barely 100 years since women were given the vote, has been ground-breaking territory for the Australian people. However, she has had to endure too much disgusting bullying and many tirades of abuse from so many who have lined up to intimidate and ridicule her and it has been shameful to watch. This day will go down in history as one of shame for the Labor Party and I could weep for the committed supporters who can't believe this is really happening.

Catching up

21/03/2013Jane, Crean believes he can control Rudd. Even if Rudd does not want him for deputy. Yes, a lot of fools. Also those who are wiping the PM off, without waiting for the ballot in 4.30. Yes, Abbott has moved for vote of no confidence. Nothing new to say. By the way, Crean should have that petition signed before he made his call. Abbott should have shut up. Once again, cannot help himself, is over reaching.

Catching up

21/03/2013jane, I will be joining you with my vote. Hope there is a decent independent standing. Will not have much trouble changing, as I have little respect for my local member.

MWS

21/03/2013So Rupert is hoping to replace the PM with another "YES MAN." I have never said this before about anybody - but I hope Rupert Murdoch becomes incapacitated very soon - won't go as far as wishing he was dead. He has damaged Britain, the USA and Australia with his meddling and lies.

jane

21/03/2013Lyn, just read Ross Gittins piece on racism and economics. It explains a lot and at the same time is quite shocking. Obviously a lot more education is needed.

Catching up

21/03/2013Has Rudd nominated yet?

Catching up

21/03/2013Listening to the PM. As I said, Abbott should have shut up, and resisted putting the boot in. One thing for sure, it will not be Rudd that walks it out that door, in victory. This vote needs more than a majority, I believe.

Catching up

21/03/2013Was not grantede leave to move no confidence motion. Is seeking leave. Needs an absolute majority. PM appears to be in full control. Appears very confidence.

Casablanca

21/03/2013The PM is standing to respond to the motion. "[Mr Abbott] filled the space with the only thing he knows how to do and that is negativity, bitterness and the politics of personal assault." "This is a government that has got on with the job and has governed well." The PM is talking about the government's record on the economy and its performance during and after the global financial crisis. "I am proud that this week we have extended more funding to women who work in childcare centres. Why shouldn't women who work in childcare centres with children, our most precious resource, have better pay and conditions? Why can't the leader of the opposition be a big enough man to support that?" The PM is giving a strong defence of her policies to defend workers' rights and, in particular women. She mentions not only childcare workers, but aged workers, better protection for women who are leaving violent relationships, paid parental leave and increasing the tax free threshold for low paid workers (who are more likely to be women). The PM: "Here we are as a nation strong, resilient, emerging from the global financial crisis well." "It is a future of opportunity that is not assured." Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/the-pulse-live/politics-live-21-march-2013-20130321-2ggsv.html#ixzz2O8rIWWgM An impressive performance from the PM. She concluded with remarks along the lines of I will continue to be PM.

jane

21/03/2013What a bunch of nancy boys! Hope the PM comes out stronger than ever and the Ruddites are kicked to kingdom come. Is Rudd now in the Liars camp? If so, they're welcome. He can start whiteanting Liealot as fast as he can lick. Idiots! Get behind the PM, after being checked for knives, and sell, sell, sell this government. And just when there are a few articles about Liars corruption starting to appear in the press.

Casablanca

21/03/2013@ March 21. 2013 02:13 PM I said: [i]LOTO now moved for a suspension of standing orders to call for a vote of no confidence.[/i] This was not quite correct. LOTO wanted to launch straight into a No Confidence motion but this was dis-allowed. He therefore went for a suspension of standing orders which he has just lost. LOTO needed an absolute majority of 76 but only garnered 73. At the start the PM said to LOTO, 'Take your best shot'. After LOTO's motion was lost she said, 'I invited the LOTO to take his best shot, all we got was a damp squid so I ask that QT be ended or WTTE. Impressive performance from our PM. Lets hope that the Caucus comes to its senses.

Casablanca

21/03/2013Windsor, Wilkie and Oakeshott voted with the Opposition. Slipper and Thomson voted with the Government. Bob Katter was not present. Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/the-pulse-live/politics-live-21-march-2013-20130321-2ggsv.html#ixzz2O8xB3NBd

2353

21/03/2013Think about the tone of Crean's Press Conference this morning. While I'm not a member of the ALP Caucus and I'm not aware of the rules, it would make sense that if you call for a spill of leadership positions you must "want" - i.e nominate for one of them yourself. Crean rightly has said the destablisation has gone on long enough, it should be put to an end and if alternatives to Gillard believe they have the numbers they should put up or shut up. Notably, Crean also said that while he would run for the Deputy Leader, he believed he would not be the first choice of the person he believed wanted the leadership. What if . . . Crean either flushes out nobody who is willing to take on the leadership (I haven't seen anything saying there is a contender yet) or the alternative leadership contender is soundly beaten again? Crean then withdraws his nomination and nothing changes. Is Crean working for or against the PM? Either way, the press reports are demonstrated to be erroneous and the Prime Minister gets relatively clear air except for the machinations of Fairfax and NewsCorp. After all for most of 2012, there was little talk about leadership speculation in the ALP. I'm not saying that's whats going on, it's just an alternate viewpoint. The real issue remains that ALP MP's continue to spill their guts to the media. For [insert series of expletives here] sake - SHUT UP if you want to sit on the correct side of Parliament House post the next election.

Pikiranku

21/03/2013So Simon Crean thinks he'd be a good deputy PM under a Rudd leadership! Wasn't it only 2 years ago he made all those charming remarks about Rudd and his leadership: 'a prima-donna', 'not a team player', etc. Imagine how all that would look in the coalition's pre-election advertising! Give us a break, Simon. It's time you retired. (To a very distant corner - as far away as possible, in fact.) I'm very glad that Julia's taken in up to the whiteants and called a spill, that she's taken control. It'll be interesting to see whether Rudd stands or not. I think at the end of this parliamentary term he should go and join Simon - somewhere far away.

Pikiranku

21/03/20132353 Simon Crean was very clearly against the PM. He not only stated that he would support Rudd in a leadership spill, but he also said that he thought the government was heading in the wrong direction. Too much of a 'class-war' attitude. I thought Julia's speech in reply to the SSO motion was fantastic (two brilliant speeches in one day!) - she was strong, emphatic, articulate and comprehensively covered the government's achievements. I imagine she was speaking as much to her own side of the house as to the others - and I hope they were listening.

Casablanca

21/03/20133:08pm: Mr Crean's office has confirmed he was sacked from his ministerial responsibilities. Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/the-pulse-live/politics-live-21-march-2013-20130321-2ggsv.html#ixzz2O98JW6ag Simon committed hari kiri which is sad and perplexing. His Press Conference earlier today was one of the shorter suicide notes in political history and so unnecessary.

KHTAGH

21/03/2013 Pikiranku Re- Simon Crean, he should have gone ages ago, retired after Labors last loss under Beazly, he is the type along with Fitzgibbon that have been doing the whiteanting, just noticed on the telly that he has been fired from all his ministerial positions. I wonder if Rudd does put his hand up & loses again will he walk from the ALP trying to force either an early election or a by election?.

Curi-Oz

21/03/2013Currently watching the talking heads disect all the information that they don't have. It is edifying as to the type of circus into which the media has turned the political process. The spouse is offering me chocolate in an effort to calm me, don't think it will work until after 4:30 AEST dammit, and then it may be a question of consolation for our poorly served country.

Casablanca

21/03/2013Barry Cassidy in conversation with Lyndal Curtis freely admitting that it was the Rudd supporters who were backgrounding on a number of matters. He said that the Nova Peris matter would not have become an issue without the Rudd supporters stirring things up. Ditto the fuss over the resignations of Nicola Roxin & Chris Evans. Barry also commented that Crean's presser was full of contradictory statements.

Catching up

21/03/2013Not too impressed with the behavior of the Coalition at this time in lull in the lower house. One after another is getting up, pouring out bile and hate against the PM. Maybe, sometimes it is more prudent to sit on the sidelines and observe.

Catching up

21/03/2013Rudd still has not nominated.

Ad astra reply

21/03/2013Folks I've been watching ABC 24 so haven't been at my computer - they are in different rooms. The ballot promises to be close - the problem is that nobody knows how reliable the votes are for Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd. We just have to wait and see. I'll be back after the ballot.

Ad astra reply

21/03/2013Folks Kevin Rudd is not standing.

Casablanca

21/03/2013Why, Why, Why did Crean offer himself up as a sacrificial lamb? Rudd not to run.

2353

21/03/2013Surly Politicians should know to line up their ducks before they go public. So the spill becomes the nothing to see here? But then again the ALP has been doing this for the past couple of years. FFS - shut up and give the appearance you know how to govern the country. It would also help if you could express a coherent plan and demonstrate why the LNP would be worse.

Ad astra reply

21/03/2013Folks It looks like PMJG will continue as PM, unless some extraordinary twist occurs.

Catching up

21/03/2013As I said, one should wait for the eggs to hatch before counting the chickens. The PM has played the media for the fools they are. Not too happy with the results. Abbott will have to put away the champagne.

Ad astra reply

21/03/2013Folks PM Julia Gillard remains PM; Wayne Swan Deputy.

Catching up

21/03/2013The media are now accusing the Labor Party of destroying the apology for force adoptions. Maybe that should be aimed at Abbott.

Casablanca

21/03/2013Habamus Julia PM

Tom of Melboune

21/03/2013Hooray! Gillard still PM. Absolutely no rational reason exists to support this rabble.

NormanK

21/03/2013Simon Crean has just smoked out all of the white-ants. Any journalist who takes one of these backgrounders seriously over the next six months should be battered with a dead fish. To use my preferred metaphor, Simon Crean has squeezed the pimple.

Janet (jan@j4gypsy)

21/03/2013Thank you NormanK. Exactly so! But for the moment, Simon seems to have fallen on his ...well ... carving knife? Maybea diplomatic post later, after the election :-)

Jason

21/03/2013ToM, Your man proved to be just like you GUTLESS!

LadyInRed

21/03/2013Ad said [i]PM Julia Gillard remains PM; Wayne Swan Deputy[/i] i would like to add "media still irrelevant."

MWS

21/03/2013In today's West Australian there was NOT EVEN ONE article on the NDIS passing Parliament yesterday. Not one! If the media aren't going to bother to give us the news, why should we buy their papers?

Pikiranku

21/03/2013Catching Up Yes, it's sad that all this manouvering has overshadowed the forced adoption apology and Julia Gillard's absolutely brilliant speech. I'm not personally affected by this issue in any way and yet her speech was so powerful it moved me to tears. If any of you missed it, find it and listen all the way through. It's well worth the time, I promise you that you won't ever hear many better speeches than that. And you'll never hear the best of it on the MSM. I've always respected Simon Crean and admired the way he continued to serve the ALP and the nation even after he'd been rolled as party leader. I thought he was bigger thn he showed himself to be today. I think he had a brain fart and it's definitely time he moved on.

Curi-Oz

21/03/2013Just had a visiting small child throw up all over my couch - I think that is a suitable comment on the whole mess *sighs*

Catching up

21/03/2013Pikiranku, that apology is something that is very dear to me. Maybe you can catch up with what I have written elsewhere. I am surprised at the level of anger that Mr. Abbott's contribution made in me. I was so glad, when the jeering began. That is what I would have liked to see on the news this night.

jane

21/03/2013WRT Crean, I think he's taken one for the team. As Norman K said above, he's squeezed the pimple. The msm has again been outflanked by the PM. However, I wonder if Conroy's media bills weren't a feint to draw the msm and the Liars out into the open for a very clear shot. With one efficient blow she has shown the msm and the Liars to be a lazy, hypocritical, incompetent mob of seat warmers and their hysterical shrieking against Conroy's proposed media regulations to be as hollow and hypocritical as their master. Who must be foaming at the mouth at the ease with which she's out thought, out manoeuvred and made fools of all of them. She is positively Florentine in her ability to play the end game; lets the enemy think they're making headway, then tips red hot oil on their heads. In the years to come, she will be celebrated as one of the most able politicians and PMs this country has ever had. So now there's breathing space, leadershit put to bed, middle digit given to the msm and the government can get on with the job.

ausdavo

21/03/2013What an anti-climax! An opportunity missed. Two factions, but only one with all the spoils. Normally the ALP divides the spoils on the basis of the faction's relative support. Not here though. Today Kevin Rudd should have been "invited" to become the Deputy Leader of the Government. This would have jammed it right in the mouth of the Libs and the MSM. It would have been straight out of left field and strongly endorsed by a majority of voters (you know, they elect the next government!). Instead, all we get is hateful remarks by some on this site towards K Rudd whilst asking for unity behind PM Gillard. Unity (and victory) comes from showing a united front behind two great Labour members PM J Gillard and K Rudd. It's increasingly likely all the criticism will hand the "nutter" Abbott a huge undeserved victory. What a disaster.

nasking

21/03/2013 WOW! I MISSED ALL THE ACTION...WHY WERE PEOPLE JEERING AT TONY ABBOTT? I COME BACK FROM A PLEASANT DAY AT CURRUMBIN SANCTUARY WITH MY AMERICAN FAMILY VISITORS AND IT'S ALL DRAMA. WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO THE MEDIA REFORM BILL? DO YOU THINK SIMON CREAN FELL ON HIS SWORD IN ORDER TO LET THE PRESSURE OUT OF THE COOKER? I REALLY WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO THE MEDIA REFORM BILL...HAS IT A CHANCE DOWN THE ROAD? I JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY WE DIDN'T GET A BETTER BILL EARLIER THAT THE INDIES COULD AGREE TO? N'

nasking

21/03/2013 [b]It's increasingly likely all the criticism will hand the "nutter" Abbott a huge undeserved victory.[/b] ausdavo, NOT NECESSARILY...IF THIS GIVES JULIA GILLARD AN OPPORTUNITY TO FOCUS ON POLICY AND THE PUBLIC REALLY FOCUS ON ABBOTT AND THE COALITION POLICIES I RECKON THINGS COULD SHIFT... JULIA IS A STRONG LEADER...SHE KEEPS OUT NEGOTIATING THE OTHERS AND BEATING THEM...SO DON'T UNDERESTIMATE THE FIRST FEMALE PM. ABBOTT DOESN'T DO HIMSELF ANY FAVOURS. N'

Jason

21/03/2013ausdavo If Rudd and his backers didn't spend the last 3 years white anting the government by back grounding the press perhaps I wouldn't be so critical of him, that said we have an election to contest against a man who Labor has underestimated for too long. Rudd hung his backers out to dry today tomorrow they have to get behind the leader!

nasking

21/03/2013 [b]Independent MP Rob Oakeshott put out a statement this morning asking for an extra five weeks to consider the bills and the amendments put forward by other crossbench MPs[/b] Read more: http://www.news.com.au/national-news/stephen-conroy-labors-media-bills-withdrawn-from-parliament/story-fncynjr2-1226602242493#ixzz2O9o6QhyU IS THEIR A PROBLEM WITH THIS? I'M BEGINNING TO THINK THE ALP WERE NOT SERIOUS ABOUT DEALING WITH THE CONCENTRATION OF MEDIA. THAT IS HIGHLY DISAPPOINTING. N'

nasking

21/03/2013 THEIR SHOULD BE THERE.

NormanK

21/03/2013ausdavo I was a bit surprised to see this in your post: [quote]Instead, all we get is hateful remarks by some on this site towards K Rudd whilst asking for unity behind PM Gillard. Unity (and victory) comes from showing a united front behind two great Labour members PM J Gillard and K Rudd.[/quote] Now I see that it is a crosspost from PB. Please don't bring the endless loop of arguing over Gillard or Rudd being the better leader to TPS. That argument alone has practically ruined PB. I suspect you will find little (if any) sympathy for Rudd among regular commenters here but more to the point, we don't need that disease here.

angrybee101

21/03/2013Re the idea of Crean falling on his sword... i posted this over on The Pub earlier... Maybe Crean, having delivered the cultural policy a few days ago, and this was obviously something he is passionate about, told PMJG that he was thinking of retirement in Sept (Is it too late for preselections in Hotham?) – Anyway, he is 64 and has been in parliament since 1990, and maybe wanted to move to the back bench for the last few months like Roxon. And either offered to be the stalking horse/ or JG asked him to – taking every advantage out of the situation. this also gave him the opportunity to fire a few well aimed shots at the way the party has been operating and maybe have some ‘air clearing’ in caucus on issues other than the leadership. Thats my theory anyway...and I prefer to think he and PMJG plotted this to smoke out the disenters, than think of him as a traitor as I've always respected Crean - I guess if we wait a few years and we'll get the truth from Crean's memoirs!

nasking

21/03/2013 WHAT DISAPPOINTS ME IS WE PUT A GREAT DEAL OF EFFORT INTO PAVING THE WAY FOR MEDIA REFORM...AND WHEN I SAY 'WE' I MEAN THE BLOGS/SOCIAL MEDIA (LOOK AT THE EFFORTS OF THE FIFTH ESTATE, CRIKEY, CAFE WHISPERS, SOME ON FACEBOOK ETC)...AND IT FEELS LIKE WE'VE BEEN SHAFTED AGAIN... THE REST OF YOU CAN IGNORE THIS...BUT IT LOOKS LIKE INCOMPETENCE TO ME. IT'S A REAL ISSUE FOR ME...SO MUCH SO I'M CONSIDERING VOTING GREEN...AND EXHAUSTING THE VOTE...AND LETTING THE CARDS FALL WHERE THEY WILL. AND BELIEVE ME...THIS LACK OF REFORM WILL BECOME AN ONGOING ISSUE. N'

nasking

21/03/2013 angrybee101, GOOD POINTS. N'

2353

21/03/2013Well waddya know - I picked it. In my post at 3:08 I suggested that Crean could be doing a great service to the ALP instead of a great disservice. I had no idea it would come to pass and wish I could be that good at picking Lotto numbers. The following things seemed strange: * There was no "ticket" * The PM caved so easily on the spill * Rudd took an age to announce anything * Crean's language. In reality today is a shame that the apology was overtaken by events. The "spill" does demonstrate two things within the ALP, that there is no other challenger to the PM apart from Rudd - and he won't nominate against a sitting PM. It also gives us the ability to comment on any MSM's site that they can cut the leadership speculation - it won't happen. Interesting reaction by Rudd - despite the "20 MPs" in his office lobbying him he does has considerably more morals and ethics than a lot of people gave him credit for. 7 News was just reporting a Reachtel Survey on the LNP in Queensland - apparently it's not good reading for Newman. http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/poll-queenslanders-losing-faith-in-state-government-20130320-2gf6b.html

Curi-Oz

21/03/2013The question is, what was supposed to be gained by calling for a spill today (of all days), when it is obvious to those not stuck in Parliament House that the only winners would be NewsLtd, Fairfax and the LNP?

NormanK

21/03/2013Curi-Oz What has been gained is that all of those people who signed the petition calling for a spill have lost all credibility with the journos that they have been backgrounding. Curiously enough, a lot of those same journos (Uhlmann & Co) are openly admitting that they have been gamed - willingly or otherwise. There will be considerably less willingness on the part of some journos to take calls from those MPs now. It might not be 'checkmate' but it is certainly 'check'.

KHTAGH

21/03/2013 2353 & angrybee101 Very well predicted.

ausdavo

21/03/2013I'm interested to read your comments Norman K. I'm not sure you are accurately representing me, however. At no stage have I ever indulged "the endless loop of arguing over Gillard or Rudd being the better leader". I have always made myself quite clear in not criticizing one or the other person for their role as leaders. It's not what Labour people should be indulging in. I've never seen J Gillard or K Rudd say the things about each other that many posters here and on PB do to one or the other. Frankly the disloyalty inherent in such criticism disgusts me. Sadly, in my many years as an ALP member starting in 1959 I have seen such disloyalty on many occasions including in my early days to Artie Calwell, Clyde Holding and Gough Whitlam to name just three leaders (State and Federal). More to the point I have always suggested PM J Gillard the better choice for PM (but also advocated K Rudd for Deputy). My aim has always been the best result for the ALP to stop the mendacious Abbott! If expressing my opinion is a "disease" as you claim then why not just say that I'm not welcome here. If others agree they can add their voice (a site with no alternate discussion may be what you're after). On the other hand you might just have got out of bed on the wrong side this morning! As for expressing a similar statement on two sites, where many different posters exist, thank you for informing me that I've done something wrong (albeit unknowingly). Finally, we're not all endowed with great intellectual ability. Mine is obviously below the standard you require. You won't scare me off in the way the right-wing sites do to posters they disagree with, though. However, should Ad tell me to go away I will respect him as I respect his site and value it for the great work it does.

nasking

21/03/2013 [b]The question is, what was supposed to be gained by calling for a spill today (of all days), when it is obvious to those not stuck in Parliament House that the only winners would be NewsLtd, Fairfax and the LNP? [/b] WHAT PEOPLE ARE FAILING TO SEE HERE IS NEWS LTD HAS WON. NO MEDIA REFORM. N'

Sir Ian Crisp

21/03/2013[quote][b]Simon Crean has just smoked out all of the white-ants. Any journalist who takes one of these backgrounders seriously over the next six months should be battered with a dead fish. To use my preferred metaphor, Simon Crean has squeezed the pimple. NormanK [/b][/quote] Wrong! Wrong! Wrong! Stick to the script. It's Abbott's fault. He fed Crean's lines to him. He urged Crean to call for a spill. He told Rudd not to nominate. It has Abbott fingerprints all over it. Stick to the TPS script.

Bloss

21/03/2013I think Crean may have done us all a favour. I am not a fan of his but, hey, he's forced the issue of leadership past the pundits and stirrers and given it a legitimate platform (to move beyond speculation). This could be a turning point. Quod Bonum Tenete ( Hold fast to that which is good).

NormanK

21/03/2013ausdavo I'm certainly not trying to scare you off or accusing you of being diseased. I just don't see any basis for: [quote]all we get is hateful remarks by some on this site[/quote]. Nor am I suggesting that cross-posting is a bad thing except when you paint this site with the same brush as PB. I certainly didn't cast aspersions on your intellectual ability. Can we call a truce? I just don't want the PB leadership nonsense infecting this great site.

ausdavo

21/03/2013NormanK No worries, thanks for the explanations.

Pikiranku

21/03/2013Sorry, but I think you're all fantasising. Julia wouldn't have so swiftly and unceremoniously sacked Crean if the two of them had been involved in the devious conspiracy you've constructed. Crean acted alone.

Pikiranku

21/03/2013Btw what's a bright young woman like Laura Smyth doing backing Rudd against Julia?

Tom of Melbourne

21/03/2013It was all baseless media speculation. Everyone is 120% behind Gillard, she’s just so popular and is bound to lead us to victory! The media reforms were competently handled too. Another great victory by Our Prime Minister!! We’ve always hated Crean, except when we didn’t. Same with Tanner and Rudd. And Bill Kelty. Next week Conroy will address the great progress on the NBN. It’s behind schedule, with lower take up rates. But other than that, it’s hugely successful.

nasking

21/03/2013 THNX TO THE TPS CONTRIBUTORS FOR RESPONDING TO MY CONCERNS...NOT. COMPLETE DISRESPECT CONSIDERING THE EFFORT I HAVE PUT IN. FCK LABOR!!! I FEEL CONNED. BTW CRAIG EMERSON...YER REPLY ON 7:30 TO THE MEDIA REFORM BILL QUESTIONS WERE NOT GOOD ENUFF. NOT AT ALL. FEEL WE GOT CONNED ON THE MINING TAX...NOW OVER MEDIA REFORM. BEGINNING TO FEEL THIS IS A CORPORATE SUCK-ARSE PARTY WHO ARE TRYING TO PULL THE WOOL OVER VOTER'S EYES. JUST ONE BIG GAME. N'

nasking

21/03/2013 I HAVE JUST UNFRIENDED LABOR HUB, QLD LABOR, AND THE TWO ALP MEMBERS I WAS FRIENDS WITH... YOU DO NOT SCREW WITH SUPPORTERS AND VOTERS LIKE THAT. HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN THE ALP NOW. STUPID STUPID GAMES. N'

Catching up

21/03/2013Labor, do you really believe those media bills are gone.

Ad astra

21/03/2013Folks I've been watching the unfolding events all day on TV, and there's more to come tonight. I'll respond tomorrow to today's events.

jane

21/03/2013[quote].....he won't nominate against a sitting PM.[/quote] When he's certain he hasn't got the numbers, 2353. However, I agree that he did the right thing even if the cynic in me says it's because he knew he didn't have the numbers. It all seemed a bit contrived and unnatural, somehow. And for Crean of all people to call for a spill seemed odd. I'm inclined to agree with angry bee 101 wrt Crean's possible reason for his actions. He's never struck me as disloyal or spiteful and I wouldn't be surprised if he and the PM hadn't cooked this up to draw out the whiteanters and put paid to leadership speculation involving Rudd once and for all. Norman K, now they've sprung the whiteanters, they know who to call in for a good bollocking if any of this stuff happens again. And not only have the whiteanters lost credibility, so has the msm. Win, win!

TalkTurkey

21/03/2013 ausdavo reckons he's been a Member of the Labour party since 1959 "...two great Labour members PM J Gillard and K Rudd." "It's not what Labour people should be indulging in." Notice anything Folks? He's been a "Labour member" since 1959 and he can't spell Labor? By their mispelings shall we know Them!

Capstan

21/03/2013'Ullo, labour luvvies! What a day! I mean really - what a day! It doesn't get any better, does it? For the Conservative side of politics, I mean. Take this view from one commentator: [i]"It couldn’t have worked out better for Tony Abbott. Labor is still led by Julia Gillard, electoral poison. Kevin Rudd, Labor’s only hope, has been badly wounded. Both are still in the Labor party, guaranteeing further instability. And Labor loses one of its few adults in the Ministry. Bye Bye Simon Crean. Bye bye Labor."[/i] I mean - what a show! The best show in town! And it's FREE!! Man - gimmee the popcorn and the comfy chair - I'm here until the very end! Which might be sooner rather than later ... Couldn’t have suited Abbott more. Tom of Melbourne - mate, take a bow - you're priceless and I agree with everything you've ever said, despite the vitriol, scorn and spittle you patiently collect from all the lefty trogs that congregate here. 'Nasking - mate, I feel your pain! It's time to bugger the ALP (if that's actually possible after years of Gillard / Rudd) and re-form the Communist Party of Australia! Then you and all your comrades can meet in a phone box somewhere at irregular intervals and loudly sing "SOLIDARITY FOREVER!" to each other. Ad Astra me old wise guy mate - all I can say is BWAAA! HAAAAA! HAAAAAAAAA! HAAAAAAA! HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAR!! The cliff, me old lefty maties - you're all waddling determinedly up the path to the cliff of utter destruction. But that piece of knowledge won't stop you all from hurling yourselves off, will it?

jane

21/03/2013Nas' I feel that now that the leadershit stuff has been dealt with, the media bills will be revisited. The constant hysteria fomented by the msm had to be dealt with and out to bed. Now that they have smoked out the backgrounders and whiteanters and know that Kevin Rudd won't be working in the background to destabilise the government, it will be full steam ahead. Don't be downhearted. The job had to be done and the sooner the better.

jane

21/03/2013Blush! should be put to bed.

ausdavo

21/03/2013You're a smart arse TalkTurkey. You know it all don't you? How dare you sit in judgement of others? I don't know you by mis-spellings (yes, you got that wrong) but because you're so superior that you think it allows you to insult someone else. I'd lick you every day for the work I've put in for the Alp since 1959 (and still do). Loyalty begins at home!

Capstan

21/03/2013Hey this is great! The uber, ill-educated and rotten-tooth'd member of this strange grouping of political dinosaurs - Turkey the Mannn! - involved in vigorous hand-bag-swinging with a tragic lefty I've not noticed before - "ausdavo" - who is either someone who's been working up in the Snowies since the 1950s or doesn't know how to properly italicise "ALP". The latter is more probable, as the inevitable educational outcome that all of you plonkers on this sorry site relentlessly promote is - terminal illiteracy. But far be it for me, a mere ant, to interfere when Mighty Elephants are a'tussling! Go for it, boys! May the most tragic, pathetic leftard win!! I don’t know who to put my money on. Turkey boy – quick! Give me a tip!

Capstan

21/03/2013Jane - you REALLY believe the media bills will be "re-visited"? Those bills, Janey me old matey, were the most offensive pieces of proposed legislation ever to be put before Parliament. Because they were Stalinist and Hitleresque in their effect. They would have killed free speech - which is one of the backbones of society. Not that you lot of closet Commies would care. Freedom means nothing to you pathetic wankers. Control, to you, is everything. Just like it was to Lenin. And Trotsky. And Hitler. And Mao. And Pol Pot ... etc etc. You are all as bad as any of them. You demand free speech for yourselves - and deny it to anyone with whom you disagree. I spit on you all. Now watch this comment be censored by Ad Astra, the "man" who cannot stomach criticism.

ausdavo

21/03/2013Hey Capstan you right wing crapper, Criticise all you like, but at least get it right. If one changes Alp to ALP it's capitalise not "italicise". But most of the things you write impress me by one clear point - gross ignorance! Just watch out if you get your love-boy Abbott in. He'll reward you in the way you least expect - a cut in your pension and benefits. The only people the Tories look after are the super-rich and there's little chance you're one of them. If you were you'd display a bit of class and education. They spit your kind out every day. Generally they send you off to fight their wars, that they're too gutless to fight themselves, and laugh about you behind your back.

Capstan

21/03/2013ausdavo - my main Alpine man! - you picked me up on an error! Well done, mate! That's more than any of the other lefty-loser-tragics have ever done! You have complete permission to collect a good red wine of your choice the next time we meet in, say, Hahndorf - a favourite place of mine, don't you think? So I've never noticed you before - my apologies, but you have apparently been that - well, not memorable. But you have my attention now, mate! The only sorry lefty plonker who can spell! Hit me with your socialist rhythm stick, me old cobra! I'm all agog! And a'waitin'!

nasking

21/03/2013 [b]Nas' I feel that now that the leadershit stuff has been dealt with, the media bills will be revisited.[/b] JANE, I'M SO DISAPPOINTED. I DOUBT THE BILL WILL BE REVISTED. NOT BEFORE THE ELECTION...AND THE ALP HAVE TAKEN SUCH A BIG RISK HERE...IF ABBOTT GETS IN THE WHOLE ISSUE OF MEDIA REFORM DISINTEGRATES. OKAY, I KNOW THE CAMPAIGN WAS SOMEWHAT SUCCESSFUL IN THAT IT HAS HELPED FOCUS THE PUBLIC'S ATTENTION ON MEDIA OWNERSHIP AND BIAS LIKE NEVER BEFORE... AND CERTAINLY THE PASSING OF THE BILLS WOULD NOT HAVE ENDED THE BIASED REPORTING...THE ATTACKS WOULD BE MORE SUBTLE...BUT JUST AS PERSISTENT...AND THERE COMES A POINT WHERE BLAMING THE MEDIA BECOMES COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE ...IT'S STRONG LEADERSHIP WITH THE ABILITY TO FIND DIVERSE WAYS TO CONNECT TO THE COMMUNITY AND SELL ITS MESSAGE THAT COUNTS IN THE LONG RUN...AS WE'VE SEEN DISPLAYED BY THE OBAMA ADMIN. AND OF COURSE, IF PM GILLARD WINS THE NBN ROLLS ON...PROVIDING MORE COMPETITION FOR THE MAJOR MEDIA COMPANIES...AS THE CREATION OF ABC 24 AND THE DRUM ETC HAS DONE. BUT...I FELT IT BETTER TO PASS THE BILLS SO ABBOTT'S GOVT WOULD HAVE TO LIVE UP TO ITS PRONOUNCEMENT IT WOULD REPEAL SOME IF IT WON OFFICE. IT WOULD BE ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO DEMONSTRATE HIS INEFFECTIVENESS AND BS ARTIST HABITS IF HE WON AND DIDN'T...OR HIS SYCOPHANTIC ATTITUDE WHEN IT CAME TO MURDOCH EMPIRE ETC IF HE DID...AND IT'S POSSIBLE A HOSTILE SENATE WOULD PREVENT HIM DOING SO. I'M SURE THE ALP HAVE THOUGHT ALL THIS THRU IN A FAR MORE COMPLEX WAY THAN ME...BUT I CAN'T HELP BUT FEEL THE WHOLE APPROACH WAS MESSY...AND LOOKED SUSS...AND HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE PERCEPTION THAT CONROY IS INCOMPETENT AND PM GILLARD IS BACKING HIM TO SECURE HIS VOTE...THE SLOW NBN ROLLOUT HAS NOT INSPIRED THE LIKES OF ME. THIS WHOLE THINGS DISTURBS ME SO MUCH I'M NOT EVEN CONVINCED NOW THE ALP ARE DETERMINED TO COMPLETE THE NBN. THERE'S BEEN A NUMBER OF THINGS HAPPEN THAT HAVE LED ME TO DOUBT THE SINCERITY OF THE PARTY...AND THE SILENCE OF SOME OF THE CONNECTED SUPPORTERS ON HERE HAS ONLY SERVED TO ENHANCE MY DISTRUST. AND I'M POSITIVE MANY OTHERS FEEL THE SAME WAY...IN FACT, ONE STAUNCH LABORITE WHO ARRIVED FROM THE UK ABOUT TWENTY YEARS AGO TOLD ME IN NO UNCERTAIN TERMS AT THIS YEAR'S CHRISTMAS PARTY THAT HE HAD LOST TRUST IN THE ALP...AND WOULD NOT BE VOTING FOR THEM...NOW THIS FELLA WAS A DYED IN THE WOOL UNION SUPPORTER...FAMILY ALL LABOURITES IN THE UK...AND HE'D APPARENTLY VOTED LABOR SINCE BEING HERE. ANYWAY...UNTIL THE GAMES STOP AND THE SUPPORTERS AND ELECTORATE ARE TREATED WITH RESPECT I HAVE NO INTEREST IN SUPPORTING THE PRESENT ALP. MISERY IS WITH ME TONITE. THNX FOR THE RESPONSE DEAR JANE...YER A GOOD CYBER-FRIEND. YOU KNOW ME, I CAN'T HELP AIR MY VIEWS PASSIONATELY. TELL IT AS I SEE IT. N'

Capstan

21/03/2013[b]N'NASKING - STILL GOING AROUND, SHRIEKING IN CAPITAL LETTERS![/b] MATE - I'LL DO YOU ONE BETTER - I CAN SHRIEK IN CAPITL LETTERS [b]AND IN BOLD!!!![/b] [b]SO HOW ABOUT YOU JOIN THE REST OF US HUMAN BEINGS AND WRITE WHATEVER CRAPPY COMMENTS YOU HAVE IN LOWER CASE!!![/b] [b] WAKE UP TO YOURSELF, PLONKER, AND BECOME A HUMAN BEING!!!!!!! [/b] [b] BECAUSE - IN THE END - YOU'LL REALISE THAT SHOUTING THROUGH AMEGAPHONE LIKE ANY OTHER DICKHEAD LEFTY LIKE TURKEY BOY DOESN'T GET YOU ANYWHERE !!!!!!!!!!![/b] Comprende, amigo?

NormanK

21/03/2013nasking I've only got this second-hand at the moment but it seems the media reform bills are on the notice paper for the next sitting. I'll look for confirmation on that. Good news if true.

Capstan

21/03/2013'N'asking - "misery is with me tonite" (As opposed to "tonight") BWAAAAAAAAAA!!!!! HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!! HAAAAAAAAA!!! HAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRR!! Welcome to the rest of your life, lefty toss-pot. You get what you desrevr. YOU deserve this cascading caper of clowns - led by the huge-arsed Gillard the ("There will be no carbon tax") liar. She lies and lies and lies. How about her alleged abortion? The perfect outcome - if it's true - she, personally, destroys her own child. Thereby ensuring her line will never continue - if it's true. An absolute own goal, don't you think - if it's true?

DMW

22/03/2013Did I miss something today? Some sort of beat up or something? Huh? The same person is still Prime Minister? ... ohh and damn and bu@@er the same person is still Deputy PM ... [*mutters quietly*] [i]Dear Julia, get rid of that freaking albatross around your neck and you will soar with the eagles[/i] What was it I missed again?

Capstan

22/03/2013DMW - are you serious? Julia will "soar with eagles"? Mate - she is one, huge, fat-arsed turkey. She's never gonna fly - she's dead meat! The best she can do is waddle determinedly up to the Cliff of Doom, from which she will (quite predictably) hurl herself, crying out your very words "I can FLY!!!" as she hurtles down towards the gory, jagged rocks below upon which have already splattered the putrid remains of ALP NSW, ALP Qld, ALP NT, ALP WA etc etc. You blokes - having backed the WORST government EVER in Australian history - are gonna be out of power for at least two terms. Get used to it, road kill.

jane

22/03/2013Well good old Crapstain shows his true colours. You know perfectly well that Nasking has to post in upper case or bold because his sight is failing. What a nasty piece of work you are, just like Meredoch's tame wanker, Liealot. And just like your gutless hero Liealot, your target of choice is someone in poor health. Nasking is worth 100 empty vessels like you. Lies? You mean like Whyalla being wiped from the face of the earth? A lamb roast will cost $100? Lying about electricity bills? Lying to the Parliament about his slush fund? Lying to the AEC about his slush fund? Lying about Alcoa's business decisions? Crawl back under your rock. That sort of thing? Lying about his threatening and abusive behaviour?

paul walter

22/03/2013I just so wish people would read the piece on the IPA's austerity economics prepared for Abbott up at the Drum earlier this week. Maybe with the leadership diversion finally sorted, people will finally start to look behind the fluff at the real issue the press and media have been trying to conceal.

Casablanca

22/03/2013Anne Summers put it well: [i]While I was watching the ugly events of Thursday afternoon unfold, I was trying to remember the last time Australia had a perfect prime minister. Or even one who was universally popular. [/i] Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/comment/judgment-of-history-will-be-kinder-to-pm-than-tv-news-cycle-20130321-2girw.html#ixzz2OBcX4I4x

Patriciawa

22/03/2013Well, Casablanca, she may not yet be universally popular, but judging by the way she spoke to those mothers and forcibly taken children yesterday I would say that Prime Minister Julia Gillard will become beloved of many. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-03-21/gillard-delivers-apology-to-victims-of-forced-adoption/4585972

janice

22/03/2013Good morning all. Well what a day was yesterday. Firstly, I was shocked into thinking Simon Crean was for real at first but, it soon occurred to me that he sacrificed himself to flush out the traitors. He was the lone warrior doing undercover sabotage of Labor's enemies and he fooled them into showing their faces. I came to this conclusion after taking the time to reflect on Crean's Labor record. Looking back, I also remembered it was Crean who forced Rudd's hand so that he resigned as FM in 2012 whilst he was in New York and actually challenged to be comprehensively beaten. Of course, I do not know if JG knew or even suspected what Simon was doing but I'm pretty sure her supporters did not. Simon should be given an oscar for his acting performance in convincing the Rudd camp that he was on their side. They believed him and the rest is history. I got a lot of satisfaction when I saw the shock and the realisation of being dudded on the faces of the Ruddistas and his media supporters. Long may PMJG rein.

Capstan

22/03/2013Jane says: [i]"Nasking has to post in upper case or bold because his sight is failing".[/i] First I've ever heard of that - I don't spend my entire life on this strange, twisted little site - unlike most of you. No, I just visit from time to time, in order to marvel at how determined some people can be in both their individual and collective delusions. Gillard's a liar - always has been, always will be. As a lawyer she was dishonest and incompetent - and the investigations into her lies concerning the AWU scandal continue. My assessment is that she will eventually face charges, at least for her lies about the affidavit she drafted and did not witness as is required. Lousy, lying lawyer - lousy, lying Prime Minister. And all of us on the conservative side of politics are laughing long, loud and heartily as the latest episode of ALP Comedy Capers shows what an absolute circus of clowns and buffoons your side of politics has degenerated into. I wonder what disaster the ALP will inflict upon itself today?

Michael

22/03/2013All the punditry talk this morning is that Labor have screwed it up, no chance to win the next election. But I watched the 6 o'clock Channel Nine News last night and three times Tony Abbott failed to answer a direct question, twice of those times pulled up by the newsreader because he hadn't answered a simple question (the third time the reporter visibly gave up). And all the time Abbott was holding his 'real solutions' pamphlet in front of his chest, inching it upwards into clearer view. No reference to it, it was just there. He looked like a vacuum-cleaner salesman with a shiny brochure and an inability to explain just how his product sucked. What I saw on a very popular news program was a man given a free pass to present himself as a real alternative leader of this nation apparently believing that prattling out tired old lines, smirking when pulled up on doing so, and sliding his "but wait, there's more" very very skinny but oh so shiny political (there are no real policies in it) pamphlet into view, was the order of the day. He looked exactly like he is - out of his depth, as bumpkin a fool as Barnaby, and so incapable of seizing the day it'll be a month before he realises the chance that he just missed. Bet you Malcolm didn't miss what happened with and to Tony Abbott on last night's Channel Nine News.

Michael

22/03/2013Dear Capstan, re: "And all of us on the conservative side of politics are laughing long, loud and heartily as the latest episode of ALP Comedy Capers shows what an absolute circus of clowns and buffoons your side of politics has degenerated into." Please see my previous post.

lyn

22/03/2013Today’s Links Shanahan & Bolt doctor a quote to accuse Conroy of doctoring a quote: Welcome to Murdoch news: by @margokingston1 http://australiansforhonestpolitics.wordpress.com/ Murdoch’s marks all over Labor leadership spill by @davrosz talon-marks of Australia’s dark overlord, Rupert Murdoch, are etched all over this announcement http://www.independentaustralia.net/2013/politics/murdochs-marks-all-over-labor-lea Who the hell is Kim Williams? by@ngungun @independentaus “just the man Murdoch needs to make money out of papers on the internet”. http://www.independentaustralia.net/2013/business/media-2/who-the-hell-is-kim-williams/ It’s Not All Kevin’s Fault (But It Mostly Is) by @MikeSeccombe lastly, if the day’s events achieved nothing else, it at least showed once again [b]Julia Gillard is one of the toughest, smartest, politicians you’ll ever see[/b]. http://powerhouse.theglobalmail.org/its-not-all-kevins-fault-but-it-mostly-is/ A Spill By Any Other Name by @MikeSeccombe And the person who is current leader – Julia Gillard – so far is simply pretending nothing is happening. http://powerhouse.theglobalmail.org/a-spill-by-any-other-name/ Labor spill liveblog: Gillard announces 4.30pm ballot by Crikey 2.25pm: Tony Abbott, in question time, tells Gillard: “I say to the current Prime Minister, for your party’s good you should go. For your country’s good, you should go.” http://www.crikey.com.au/2013/03/21/labor-spill-crean-brings-on-leadership-challenge/ ALP in crisis Gary Sauer-Thompson media beat up to reinforce the media's narrative & to help the Coalition crack the Gillard Government http://www.sauer-thompson.com/archives/opinion/2013/03/alp-in-crisis.php#more A set of testicles, anyone? by Inga Leonora unstable behaviour in the Parliament today came not from our female PM, but the ol’ boys http://cafewhispers.wordpress.com/2013/03/21/a-set-of-testicles-anyone/ Senator Doug Cameron speaks about abuses of power by tabloid journalists by @turnleft2013 http://turnleft2013.wordpress.com/2013/03/21/senator-doug-cameron-speaks-about-abuses-of-power-by- An attack on our liberty and independence by Jonathan Mimo Australia is ranked as having one of the highest media concentrations among western nations http://www.altmedia.net.au/an-attack-on-our-liberty-and-independence/72193 Why new media reforms are bad news for Australian content by Ben Goldsmith these proposals are good news for the free-to-airs, they are bad news for producers of Australian content, and for audiences. http://theconversation.edu.au/why-new-media-reforms-are-bad-news-for-austral The best way to appreciate press freedom is to lose it by @mumbrella A government-appointed overseer of the regulator takes us backwards on that spectrum http://mumbrella.com.au/the-best-way-to-appreciate-press-freedom-is-to-lose-it-146700 Climate Change Lies- Tony Abbot by petermaus Pick which untruth you want today, or, A Case of Early Alzheimers? http://petermaus.wordpress.com/2013/03/21/climate-change-lies-tony-abbot/ When Richard met Eddie by no_filter_Yamba Richard and Eddie Obeid came into contact early in his political career and the Torbay-Obeid http://northcoastvoices.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/when-richard-met-eddie.html Abbott heckled during adoption apology speech by ABC http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-03-21/abbott-heckled-during-adoption-apology-speech/4586450 Myths of the moocher class in Australia by @MattCowgill To use these figures in this way is disingenuous and potentially misleading, http://mattcowgill.wordpress.com/2013/03/21/playing-games-with-tax-statistics/ Today’s Front Pages Australia Newspaper Front Pages for 22 March 2013 http://www.frontpagestoday.co.uk/index.cfm?PaperCountry=Australia

Ad astra

22/03/2013LYN'S DAILY LINKS updated: http://www.thepoliticalsword.com/page/LYNS-DAILY-LINKS.aspx

2353

22/03/2013So where in the shambolic reporting of yesterday afternoons events is the acknowledgement from the news media that they aided and abetted the spill that never was? The media in this country need to understand that they report the news - they do no make it or participate in it. Their job is report the events and where necessary both sides of the issue with enough evidence to ensure that their consumers have enough evidence to come to a conclusion. All we'll see for the next week is more op-ed pieces from the usual suspects on why their crappy reporting was so wonderful. If the PM does re0introduce the media regulation, can we also have one based on the Canadian truth in media system that is so "draconian" News Corp will not transmit their Fox cable channel there. It's a pity that the events of yesterday to an extent the apology to adopted people. While it got a bit of a run, it would have been nice to see Abbott heckled on the 6pm news. It also to an extend smothered coverage of a ReachTel poll in Queensland that shows the LNP support level has reduced 9% in 9 months (and the effects of Newman's ideological crusade has yet to fully hit).

2353

22/03/2013THat should read "It's apity the events of yesterday [i]overtook[/i] the apology. . . "

Tom of Melbourne

22/03/2013Yes, Let's blame the media for all that. There was nothing happening inside the ALP that was worth reporting.

Catching up

22/03/2013Chris Bowen is on ABC 24. Has resigned his ministry.

42 long

22/03/2013The media always fan the flames or start the fire of a leadership challenge. It;s their favourite way to create the image of confusion. Also their aim is to sell papers and this sort of stuff invites the readers to buy the next episode. When they don't have much evidence they create it. The opposition promote it constantly to destabilise the gov't.

lyn

22/03/2013Good Morning Ad and Everybody, Chris Bowen just confirmed he has been a source. He said to a Journalist [quote]"don’t bother ringing me later for an off the record chat" [/quote] Casablanca thankyou so much for your wonderful reporting on the chain of events. :):) The Liberal Trolls are in overdrive and are being very nasty indeed.

Catching up

22/03/2013Tom, they could report some of the positive things the PM has done as well. Media do not seem interested.

Mangrove Jack

22/03/2013I read a book yesterday. Did I miss something ? I'm delighted you got through the Mitchell article Ad astra. I'm not so sure however there was much dissent from the commenters. They seemed mostly united against one "Aidan" who has his own ideas and one "Roger" who thought he could improve on the International System of National Accounts. It is true that economics, in so much as it's called a "science", has spawned so many conflicting schools of thought, but the sectoral balance is an "identity", in the same way that the internal angles of a triangle sum to 180 degrees, and thus not really in contention. The GFC however has presented us with a wonderful opportunity to test the competing theories in real time. In the UK the pursuit of surpluses is quite counter-productive and driving the economy over a cliff whereas Australia is still deriving some benefit from the decisive stimulus actions of the Labor government. Like you, I'm not an economist, but I find the way that economics innervates history quite fascinating. Perversely however, I'm also interested in the deep flaws in neo-liberal economics, the prevailing paradigm. If you read more Mitchell, or his colleagues of the heterodox school, you will learn some interesting things. You will learn for example that the much-lauded surpluses of the Costello budgets played no part in creating the fiscal space for the Labor govt's stimulatory deficits, but it's a myth the citizenry swallowed. Max Planck once told Keynes he considered studying economics but found it too hard. That I find it very straightforward is thus more worrying than reassuring.

TalkTurkey

22/03/2013I apologise ausdavo I got you wrong. I do believe you. But to spell Labor Labour twice looked suss to me, and I was echoing in my mind another person's comment about your post, oh well I got it wrong again, sorry. It's not a matter of superior education though, unless we're talking the diff between Primary Y2 & Yr 4 though, I don't pick people up - usually, unless there's a particular point - on spelling, and your twice-use of (UK) Labour is usually a dead-set litmus test of people's sympathies. I ask you not to do it again.

Ad astra

22/03/2013Good Morning Folks For most of yesterday, from the apology about Forced Adoption in the morning to [i]Lateline[/i], I was glued to the TV, and therefore commented little on [i]TPS[/i]. So I’ll try this morning to interpret what went on. Many of you have commented here – some in a measured way, some with expressions of dismay, even disgust, and the usual suspects have returned with gauche triumphalism. I’ve left them for you to read to display the range of emotions and nastiness that political events can evoke. So what did happen? First, the apology, which subsequent media coverage sadly neglected, was one of the most moving and emotional political events I have ever witnessed. The few journalists who found time to comment gave our PM credit, but most found the ‘spill’ drama far more newsworthy, a reflection of the indifferent standards that now afflict the Fourth Estate. I was immensely proud of Julia Gillard for not just what she said, but how she said it, with feeling and sensitivity. She evoked in me the same feelings of pride in our nation’s leader as I felt when Kevin Rudd delivered his apology on our behalf to indigenous people. My admiration was heightened in retrospect when it became apparent to us all that she carried out her role as our national leader against the background that unfolded during the day, of which she was aware at the time. That she could hold her composure in circumstances that would overwhelm most of us, and faze even seasoned public figures, deserves admiration and deep respect. She is unlikely to get this from media circles. We who respect her, should express our feelings, as I see several of you have. She deserves enormous respect too for her courage, her gutsiness, her strength, her resilience and her resolve in the face of prolonged internal sabotage and the crisis she faced yesterday. I noted that on [i]The Drum[/i] last night even the Coalition supporter acknowledged this. So what did happen? First Simon Crean, who precipitated the spill. He has maintained for a long while that Rudd supporters have been undermining PM Julia Gillard, through back-grounding journalists, by leaking to them damaging views of her performance, yet remaining anonymous. They have long been suspected as the ones who leaked to Laurie Oakes at the time of the 2010 election information about what happened on the night of Rudd’s removal that popped up as a question from him during her NPC address, which seriously set back her election campaign and led to a hung parliament. Julia Gillard has no doubt that this was a severe impediment to her campaign. During the 2012 leadership challenge Crean was highly critical of Rudd, insinuating that he was directing the destabilization by sending his ‘drones’ out to do their damage, that he was not a team player, and was ‘media tart’, who always had journalists waiting for him wherever he went. And when Crean came out yesterday in his second press conference (after seemingly being supportive of Julia Gillard in his first) and said that he had asked her to call a spill and that Kevin Rudd must stand, at first it seemed like a strategy to force Rudd out into the open to settle the matter. But then he went onto say he said he would vote for Rudd, and would offer himself as Deputy PM, presumably to keep Rudd under control. This remains a mystery to me. He has recently made comments critical of the process of government, which by implication were criticisms of Julia Gillard, so I presume these concerns weighed more heavily on his mind than Rudd’s past performance and misdemeanors and persuaded him Rudd was a better bet for leader. Several have given credit to Crean for precipitating the spill and clearing the air. That seems appropriate, but his change of heart from extremely florid criticism of Rudd last year to support for him a year later is a conundrum that some of you may be able to resolve for me. Now Kevin Rudd. His decision to not nominate for PM at the caucus meeting has been lauded by his and Labor supporters as the action of an honourable man, who has stuck to his principles. Others have pointed out that although he is said to have not been orchestrating the process of getting the numbers by ‘working the phones’, he was well aware of the closeness of the numbers, a fact confirmed by Chris Bowen this morning. He has said that he would be drafted to run only if the position was vacant, and there was ‘overwhelming support’ for him, which I believe is code for certainty that he would win. He was unprepared to run the risk of a loss, and perhaps was conscious too of the damage that a close vote either way might inflict on the party. So let’s give him credit for his decision, but let’s not be naïve enough to believe that the numbers had nothing to do with it. How his supporters will view his actions may never be known. Chris Bowen said this morning that he did ‘the honourable thing’. Will others feel that he allowed them to be taken to the brink with him only to pull back, leaving some of them to fall over, or jump over, or to be pushed over, as has happened with Simon Crean, whips Joel Fitzgibbon, Ed Husic and Janelle Saffin, Richard Marles, and this morning Chris Bowen. More are likely to resign or be demoted. Rudd’s decision has left damage among his supporters in its wake – how much resentment that will evoke is anyone’s guess. What do you think? What will the public think about Rudd? Will they see his actions as those of an honourable man who kept his word, or a wimp who was not prepared to back up his destabilizing behaviour with courageous action – trying to wrest leadership from the PM in a secret ballot? Will Rudd’s supporters now abandon all attempts to have him restored? Tony Abbott insists, as do Coalition sycophants in the media, that leadership tensions will continue, and some commentators are already predicting another challenge after the Budget. This sounds like wishful thinking. Every Labor spokesperson vehemently insists leadership issues are over, and that all will unite behind Julia Gillard. Maybe that is wishful thinking too, but anything other than total support would encourage the media to continue the leadership speculation, upon which it feeds every day. Indeed it probably will, even if there are no grounds for it. The media will just make it up. What will all this do to, and for, Julia Gillard? In my opinion this will strengthen her position, enhance her authority, reinforce the image of a strong, resolute, gutsy woman who can cope with all the existential threats, the media bombs, the Coalition barbs, and the internal tensions that exist in any political party. Personally, I’m proud of her. My confidence in her ability and strength has risen further, as has my confidence that she will win the September 14 election. How will the public react. In my view those who support her will more strongly so. Those who hate her will continue to hate. Those who are undecided (16%), and those who could change their mind (31%), will reappraise her after this week, and in my opinion many will elevate her a notch or two in their estimation. Time will tell, but let’s not be naive enough to look to the polls for an indication. Toss a coin to ascertain if they will get better or worse for her and Labor in the next month or two. In the long haul, I believe this episode will enhance Labor’s stakes on September 14. What do you think? That’s my summation to date. I would welcome your comments, additions and responses to my questions.

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22/03/2013Hi Lyn What a day we’ve had. I’ve not yet started on your links; I’ve been listening to radio and TV and writing my comment above. I’ll look after lunch. 2353 The media was central to yesterday’s events, reporting discontent, fostering dissent, and using polls to support their case. My next piece is on polls and their pernicious effect on politics. Mangrove Jack It is good to have someone who understands economics on board in [i]TPS[/i]. You will be able to straighten us out if we stray too far from established wisdom.

TalkTurkey

22/03/2013CHEERS FOLKS! The word is CATHARSIS ! I feel so good! If you haven't grabbed some of the odds on Labor yet, I advise you - yes ADVISE you! to do it NOW! I don't know the odds on offer right now but last week you could've got FOURTEENS on a *J*U*L*I*A*-led Govt victory - But WE know that her stocks have SHOT UP since yesterday! Note: that's the double, J as PM & a Govt win. This is a fact I wouldn't have known if it weren't for *SIR* Limpy Crisp pointing out to me the odds back in August on a Govt win (any leader) being at 7's, and I put a bundle on us then. Thank you Limpy! MEANWHILE - The Abborttian hubris is through the roof now, you might get better odds still!!! Than FOURTEENS I mean! But Michael you have it right, NOW we can get this boat floating high because we've stopped the leaks! It didn't happen the way TT would've predicted but I did say that this week would be the final desperate writhings of the RuddPuddlers ... [i]and as their Puddle Dried Up they would go Flip ~ Flop ~ FLUP![/i] (by today, precisely). I underestimated the [i][b]FLUP[/b]! [/i]though! :) I Spy With My Little [i]Eye of Time[/i] - ! A massive lift in Labor traction in the weeks to come. We are unstoppable now. Janice Yes My thought exactly on Simon Crean, I've been Tweeting about him this morning calling for his reinstatement to the front bench - He'd be a great Whip! The difference between him and an out-&-out rat like Fitzgibbon is that he didn't do any white-anting, and whether it was a stuffup, or instead as we suspect (and hope!) another of *J*U*L*I*A*s Cunning Plans* to smoke out the whiteants, with Crean in the Oscar-winning role of Hero-Martyr, he is a staunch and loyal Labor man and he did it for sincere belief that it was for the good of the party. Well, it was! I think it would be a wonderful healing move to include him rather than send him to Coventry. I feel REALLY confident again now! Yesterday at this time - I [i]quailed[/i]. Now I'm crowing! Shut up Turkey!

42 long

22/03/2013maybe it cleared the air but I believe the damage was great. It gave abbott some free kicks. He has ammunition to push for an earlier election and thereby avoid examination of him and his (lack of) policies. He has given notice of going for a vote of no confidence at the time of the budget which will be done to avoid him making a required worthwhile contribution to the economic debate. (Something he is incapable of) He has never given a proper response to the govt's budget Watch for the agitation for an early election. He won't do it the normal way when he can whip up a frenzy, where he will have a lot of help from his usual backers.MSM IPA abc shock jocks. This will be the scary part. Abbott has no respect for process. will not reply with facts where a slogan or one liner will do. Not good enough. Are they afraid of scrutiny You BETCHA. Also, THEY want to kick labor out for ever. The election is not far enough away to make much difference to anything The aim is Obliterate. Watch the pressure the LieNP will try to exert in the electorates of the Independents. It will get dirty. I happened to listen on radio to the LieNP after QT and most of labor was absent ...they were unbelieveable in their hysterics. They are MAD...

jane

22/03/2013TT @11.52am, wrt Crean, I agree whole heartedly. Crean is not a man given to conspiracy, disloyalty or sudden decisions without consultation. Yesterday was so completely out of character for this cautious and very loyal man. He is not malicious or a plotter, imo. Anyway, the decks are cleared and I hope Julia and the rest of the cabinet is going full steam ahead with new media legislation. I hope it bites hard and gives the msm a real reason to squeal! Of course, all this hooha has made it easy for the msm NOT to report the passing of NDIS.

nasking

22/03/2013 [b]I've only got this second-hand at the moment but it seems the media reform bills are on the notice paper for the next sitting. I'll look for confirmation on that. Good news if true.[/b] NORMAN, THNX FOR THE INFO. ONE THING I DETEST IS CAPITULATION IN THE FACE OF CORPORATE BULLYING. JANE, THNX FOR YER SUPPORTIVE WORDS. YOU GET THE ODD IGNORAMUS. I PROBABLY OVER-REACTED...SOME COMMENTS RATHER RASH...BUT LET'S FACE IT, POLITICS CAN BE AN EMOTIONAL GAME IF YOU INVEST ENUFF IN IT...AND WE ALL HAVE OUR VARIED WAYS OF EXPRESSING FRUSTRATION... AD BEING FAR MORE CALMER AND REFLECTIVE THAN ME ON OCCASION. I AM SPENDING THE NEXT COUPLA DAYS WITH FAMILY AT A RESORT AND SO SHALL ENDEAVOUR TO READ THRU AD AND OTHER RESPECTED CONTRIBUTORS COMMENTS AND REFLECT DEEPLY ON RECENT EVENTS. I SHALL RETURN. CHEERS N'

Bilko

22/03/2013AA @1127 Like You I was glued to the TV I was pi** off when Penny Wong was chopped off in her no confidence reply and could not get it back. The events of the day unfolded and I thought Simon had taken one for the team, but it was not so. He must have fallen under the media hype and Rudd spell and whilst shafted later in the "I am not nominating" utterance by Kevin jumped into the life raft alone and left drifting. Others have since jumped ship, Bowen the most notable they can now sit behind Rudd and look daggers at him. Julia (Wonder Woman) can clean out the pantry(cabinet/ministry) something she failed to do at the last spill and march forward to poll axe Abbort in September.

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22/03/2013I don't think Crean leaked to the media but plenty did. Fitzgibbon just can't shut up. The damage this does to a party with the Murdoch press available and willing is incalculable. They were ASKED to stop leaking, but NO on they went. Kevin's little constant "look at me" stunts. Childish ego strutting BS. Treachery more likely. At least Crean's judgement must be seriously questioned if his motives aren't. Tactically Gillard is miles above the others. She gave a magnificent rendition that was no doubt sincere. She was under great pressure and never flinches. She sat and had the viperous insults from abbott and Bishop ( who incidently "trashed " her good friendship with K Rudd) hurled at her and just got up and delivered as good as she took. I couldn't have done it and I don't know how many others could either. Albanese's tough too. He has to stay. They do have plenty of talent I believe so can re arrange their front bench. Politics is tough. It's about the achievable not the perfect. Rudd should realise that the AIM is to not allow Abbott the ability to undo all the good work and wreck this country for all but his (small number of well-off ) MATES. I DIDN'T vote for RUPERT...

lyn

22/03/2013Hi Ad Thankyou for your most enjoyable post @ 11.21am. I was feeling very depressed about the whole episode, you have made me feel so much better. In my earlier post I mentioned Chris Bowen's comment to a Journalist about off the record reports to them, I was horrified at first at his confirmation to being a source, but now feel all this could be good as is flushing out the sources. I am little Tweety Echo in supporting every single word you said Ad, also Mike Seccombe's in the excerpt of his article. [quote]Personally, I’m proud of her. My confidence in her ability and strength has risen further, as has my confidence that she will win the September 14 election[/quote]. Mike Seccombe: [quote]if the day’s events achieved nothing else, it at least showed once again Julia Gillard is one of the toughest, smartest, politicians you’ll ever see.[/quote] http://powerhouse.theglobalmail.org/its-not-all-kevins-fault-but-it-mostly-is/ Peter Hartcher babbling but Anne writes a nice article: [i]Judgment of history will be kinder to PM than TV news cycle, by Anne Summers[/i] Thursday showed Gillard's toughness and her coolness under intense pressure. This is an asset that Australians of all stripes should appreciate. It's what we need in a leader. A person who is not prone to panic. http://www.nationaltimes.com.au/opinion/politics/judgment-of-history-will-be-kinder-to-pm-than-tv-news-cycle-20130321-2girw.html

ausdavo

22/03/2013Thanks for the apology Talk Turkey. Now we must concentrate on keeping Abbott out and hopefully give Capstan more to think about. He needs to get his head around the dreadful lies and gutlessness of Abbott to balance up some of his comments.

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22/03/2013Hi Lyn Although yesterday was traumatic for the Labor Party, sometimes internal tensions are resolved only through the process of catharsis. Despite what some in the media will argue, Kevin Rudd is no longer a threat to Julia Gillard. He has just given the media a statement that says that there are [i]”no circumstances in which he would return to the Labor leadership.”[/i] He knows he is finished, as do his supporters, some of whom will feel badly let down, abandoned by the man for whom they stuck out their necks. Even long time Rudd-backer Peter Hartcher, in a video on your ‘National Times’ link, disconsolately concedes that they would never be likely to back him again. The question of course is whether, in the absence challenger K Rudd, his now-disillusioned followers will continue their destabilization. Without an alternative leader, and Rudd was their one shot in the locker, to continue the destabilization would be nothing short of treason, the most serious crime in the criminal lexicon. Even these malcontents would see aiding the enemy without any possibility of gain, a pointless as well as a treasonous activity. Anyone who hasn’t seen the Hartcher video would find it interesting: http://www.nationaltimes.com.au/opinion/politics/judgment-of-history-will-be-kinder-to-pm-than-tv-news-cycle-20130321-2girw.html To me, Hartcher, who has promoted Kevin Rudd against Julia Gillard for a long while, and has written many derogatory things about her, looked deflated and gloomy. His longstanding campaign to reinstate Rudd has come to naught; he realizes it never can now, and he is left stone cold motherless. Unsurprisingly, he predicts even more doom for PMJG and Labor in September. Hartcher’s credibility as an informed insider, a political guru, and a distinguished senior political columnist has taken a dive. He may not recover. Mike Seccombe’s article is so much more balanced. Michelle Grattan, writing today in [i]The Conversation[/i] might as well have been still writing for Fairfax. On the Hartcher theme, she too predicts electoral disaster, now even worse after yesterday’s abortive and poorly managed coup. Michelle has been unable to adapt to her new academic environment where facts and rational argument take precedence over entrenched opinion. Think how long it took those who believed in the phlogiston theory of combustion to discard it in favour of Lavoisier’s theory that posited the role of oxygen in combustion. Grattan will not, indeed in my view cannot, change – she is so wedded to her old theories. She is still an entrenched phlogistonist. We can expect the usual suspects in the media to make even more dire predictions about PMJG and Labor. Let’s anticipate them, ignore them, and get on with supporting Labor against the dangerous alternative – an Abbott-led government. Martin Ferguson has just resigned – Julia Gillard will now be able to appoint a loyal front bench.

Catching up

22/03/2013Martin Ferguson is one I am not sorry to see go. A disgrace to his father's memory.

TalkTurkey

22/03/2013Ad and Lyn especially, but of course everybody, I feel VERY good about yesterday. The Media are bemoaning all the damage taht's been done to Labor, [i]WOOERGHHHH[/i]they say, [i]how can She ever hope to heal the ...[/i] and so on. All I have to say to that is one of my favourite sayings DYWAT! [b][i]Don't You Worry About That![/i][/b] [i]The main healing will be almost overnight![/i] - And a very feistified front bench will result, reinforced in confidence and composition, and [i]assuredly in full support of our MAGNIFICENT Prime Minister![/i] The Media have no brains at all. They can't see the simple certainty of what I'm saying. That's all my much-trumpeted Eye of Time is all about: just look ahead FFS! *J*U*L*I*A* plays Chess, I've said it before, I actually can't say for certain she does it on a checkerboard, but she does it with charm and verve with PEOPLE! And she plays [i]some moves ahead[/i]. Can you imagine the luscious Latika playing moves ahead? Or crumpled old Crassidy for that matter? Or any of Abbortt's front bench, including Turdball? [i]They don't understand what they don't understand[/i]. What [i]I[/i] understand is that *J*U*L*I*A* understands what she is doing! She is now, after yesterday's giant bump, back on the rails, full steam ahead, exactly where she wants to be! The Polls can look after themselves. Abbortt is about to get the bollocking of his life. And there'll be nothing the bereft discouraged shrieky MSM can do about it, because [i]they'll be the ones doing it.[/i] And doing it to themselves too: for now the MSM must break ranks. [/i]OOOOHHH I love having events to wax lyrical about! But now Ad you're wondering in your lucent account at 11.21 about Simon Crean, you said [i]when Crean came out yesterday in his second press conference (after seemingly being supportive of Julia Gillard in his first) and said that he had asked her to call a spill and that Kevin Rudd must stand, at first it seemed like a strategy to force Rudd out into the open to settle the matter. But then he went onto say he said he would vote for Rudd, and would offer himself as Deputy PM, presumably to keep Rudd under control. This remains a mystery to me. ... his change of heart from extremely florid criticism of Rudd last year to support for him a year later is a conundrum that some of you may be able to resolve for me. [/i] Well as I said earlier (or was that on Twitter) [b]When it's a choice between a stuff-up, or another of *J*U*L*I*A*s Cunning Plans* [/b]~~~ e.g. [i]Original deal-making with IndependAnts [/i]And [i]Peter Slipper to Speaker [/i] And [i]Replacing the treacherous Rudd with Bob Carr! -[/i] ~~~ then, [i]applying Occam's Razor [/i]- [b]Go for Another of *J*U*L*I*A*s Cunning Plans*[/b] Ad imagine the cunningest option of all - that it really was a very elaborate ruse to smoke out the whiteants, and [i]to end the stalemate.[/i] It would take someone prepared to take a big personal hit for the team, and perceptive and credible enough to pull off a major deception in the process. Someone who could credibly present as favouring Rudd, and actually prepared to work with him if he should win - even if he didn't want that to happen - or alternatively, sincerely of the (imo erroneous) belief that Rudd alone coukd lead Labor to a win. Someone clever enough to chart his own path, and be his own stalking-horse to achieving what he yearned to do: to bring the stalemate to an end, one way or another. Someone clever enough to convince even the PM that he had turned to Rudd, and committed enough to resign from his beloved front bench to make that position credible. ['Stalemate' is good! I said *J*U*L*I*A* plays chess, well doubtless Rudd does too, and for those of yo/us who don't, it helps the metaphor if you realize that in Chess a stalemate is reached when one side has lost everything except the King, but gets it into a corner from which it can go left-right-left-right forever and there's nothing that can be done to take it. It's a despicable ending to a game but it counts as a draw.] This is what Rudd has been doing for 3 years now - debilitating and unassailable. But he's finally been Checkmated in a surprising way: Crean shoved him forward into the playing area - and Rudd SQUIBBED it! And he finally fell over at last. Here's something good that comes out of it: Rednecks Ruddistas are no more likely to be impressed by blame-shifting and squibbing than the rest of us. If they thought Rudd so wonderful and the PM so evil, they're'a hafta think again. They might still not vote Labor but at least they might STFU eh! [>*) [b]*J*U*L*I*A*s Cunning Plans? *J*U*L*I*A*s Punning Clans! [/b]I'm'a Patent that ... :)

Catching up

22/03/2013From where I am sitting, most of those resigning today, supported Rudd for their own agendas. One can nearly name them, before their names are divulged. The result is going to allow the PM to go to the next election, with a fresh front bench, of up and coming stars. Not one with ties to two governments ago. One young and bright, the other old and stale.

Janet (jan@j4gypsy)

22/03/2013 A Twitter capture/selection for you folks. Nor surprisingly, it has a particular theme! And there’s lots of it. Might I just say – spend a little time with the ‘vision’ and audio. Worth it in terms of regrouping, and going forward. [b]Twitterverse: Pix, audio, video …[/b] [i] Space Kidette ‏@SpaceKidette8h[/i] Alan Moir Magic! RT http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/opinion/cartoons/alan-moir-20090907-fdxk.html … via @smh [i]Monica Attard ‏@attardmon2h[/i] Wow. Took my breathe away. http://www.crikey.com.au/2013/03/22/the-doctor-told-the-nuns-to-take-my-baby-away/ … [i]ABC Radio Melbourne ‏@774melbourne6h[/i] Jon #Faine's interview with @juliagillard is now online. http://bit.ly/WHq2HH [i]vexnews ‏@vexnews6h[/i] PM Gillard's speech on forced adoptions left many moved, in tears yesterday #auspol http://bit.ly/ZfKagx [i]Schtang ‏@Schtang4h[/i] Paul Murray Live, Mark Latham and Chris Kenny LOL a cracker http://bit.ly/11puEGb #auspol [b]Twitterverse: Reading[/b] [i]Peter Foster ‏@PeterFosterALP39m[/i] Bowen's departure costs government one of its best ministers http://theconversation.edu.au/bowens-departure-costs-government-one-of-its-best-ministers-12998 … via @conversationedu #auspol [i]The Conversation ‏@ConversationEDU40m[/i] Would a new leader really have made a big difference to Labor's performance? Chris Styles @UNSW discusses #spill http://bit.ly/Ye56LB Expand [i] Ben Eltham ‏@beneltham4h[/i] Me in @newmatilda on yesterday's Laborocalypse, and what it means for Australia's democracy http://newmatilda.com/2013/03/22/end-kevin-rudd … [i]GOLEFT ‏@GotToBeGreen4h[/i] Australian economy leads the world - Abbott is a liar http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/political-news/australian-economy-leads-the-world-20120418-1x6ac.html … via @smh [i]John Hodgkin ‏@funtoursau5h[/i] Abbott draws fire over adoption apology http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/abbott-draws-fire-over-adoption-apology/story-fn59niix-1226602907785?sv=86ba4ef502a82bae91603612bcbf69fd#.UUuXCA_QaZA.twitter … [i]Peter Foster ‏@PeterFosterALP5h[/i] I just read 'Support for major Government decisions' in this week's Essential Report http://essentialvision.com.au/support-for-major-government-decisions-2 … #auspol [i]Stephen Koukoulas ‏@TheKouk5h[/i] I'm waiting for someone to name a country with better macroeconomic fundamentals that Australia. I'm not aware of any http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/3/22/federal-budget/enough-leadership-clamour-back-budgeting … [i]Jane Cattermole ‏@janecat606h[/i] Press Gallery elder, @tonyowright nails it... "Such unctuousness has rarely been uttered" http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/political-news/party-elder-lights-fuse-then-gets-blown-away-20130321-2girj.html … [i]Paul Syvret ‏@PSyvret6h[/i] Rudd’s masterstroke http://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2013/03/rudds-masterstroke-2/ … Interesting take on yesterday's circus [i]Deborah Ann G ‏@DeborahAG6h[/i] "At the end of a long hard day I was happy to hang out, pat the dog and get some sleep." JG's my kinda gal #treasure http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/-2gjh0.html … [i]Stephen Koukoulas ‏@TheKouk7h[/i] Chanderpaul 108 this morning: Gillard PM this morning. http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2012/8/21/national-affairs/gillard-governments-sticky-wicket … [i]Stephen Koukoulas ‏@TheKouk7h[/i] My Business Spectator column: Enough leadership clamour - back to budgeting http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/3/22/federal-budget/enough-leadership-clamour-back-budgeting … @BusinessSpec [i]timdunlop ‏@timdunlop7h[/i] Hallelujah. A journo acknowledges the media's role in all this without trying to pretend they are just 'messengers'. http://bit.ly/16LZZmz [i]Bushfire ‏@BushfireBill15h[/i] Wonder how long #auspol guru Hartcher will stay at @FairfaxMedia? Even the copy boys will be giggling on Monday. http://pbxmastragics.com/2013/03/20/trucks-transport-and-tony/comment-page-13/#comment-31503 … [i]Bill McKibben ‏@billmckibben4h[/i] If you've not heard of Jonathan Rowe, you'll want to read this book http://jonathanrowe.org/common-wealth A truly original and humane thinker   [b]Twitterati:[/b] [i]Peter van Onselen ‏@vanOnselenP6h[/i] Today on #Contrarians on Sky News, Rudd joins the panel. Don't miss it! Live at 4pm AEDT [i]Peter Foster ‏@PeterFosterALP4h[/i] I get the impression that @JuliaGillard is known, and somewhat respected overseas, bad news for Abbott? #auspol [i]Wampy ‏@AussieRock7h[/i] I get a lot of enjoyment out of journalists being trumped by PM Gillard. They keep underestimating her and are wrong on a daily basis. [i]FanOfTheFray ‏@fanofthefray[/i] RT @clubwah Gillard stuck up for Abbott over his adoption gaffe, on Faine. I doubt he'd ever return the favour. [i]David Horton ‏@watermelon_man7h[/i] Tell you what, Simon Crean has matured a lot in last ten years. Mark Latham too. [i]Gabrielle Chan ‏@gabriellechan[/i] Carr: work to deny tony abbott and the extremists he works with a chance to govern [i]Stephen Spencer ‏@sspencer[/i] This is the point where the Liberal commentators suddenly discover how good Bowen is. And Crean. And anyone else who quits. [i]grace pettigrew ‏@broomstick335h[/i] #abcnews24 CBowen giving a laudatory resignation speech. Listing his achievements, thanking family. Like Rudd. What is it with these guys? [i]Jennifer Wilson ‏@NoPlaceforSheep[/i] I would rather have a colonic irrigation than read what Grattan has to say about yesterday [i]AngryAussie ‏@angryaussie6h[/i] So the Murdoch media tactic is now to demand an early election. Because it’s the media’s job to dictate government policy, not report it. [i]Michael Jongen ‏@Larrydlibrarian[/i] Hartcher, Kenny, Gordon in @theage blaming LABOR for their own epic opinionista fail YOU GOT IT WRONG #leadershit #mediafail

Casablanca

22/03/2013Kim Carr in the act of falling on his sword. ABC24

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22/03/2013Folks Kim Carr, a longstanding Rudd supporter, is resigning now.

Casablanca

22/03/2013Now for some replacements. I & many others have often commented that it was curious that someone with the economic credentials and communication abilities of Andrew Leigh was languishing on the back bench. Sure he has been appointed to a couple of Committees but his skills are otherwise untapped. Dr Leigh is the member for Fraser in the ACT (not my electorate). Here are some biographical notes: Andrew Leigh holds a BA(Hons) and LLB(Hons) from the University of Sydney, and an MPA and PhD from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. He has published over 50 journal articles in the disciplines of economics, public policy and law, and over 100 opinion pieces. His research findings have been discussed in [i]The Australian, The Australian Financial Review, Christian Science Monitor, The Economist, New York Times, The Sydney Morning Herald, Time, Wall Street Journal and Washington Post.[/i] Prior to entering politics, Dr Leigh was a professor in the Research School of Economics at the Australian National University. His research was in the fields of labour economics, public finance, and political economy. He has also previously worked as a lawyer for Minter Ellison (Sydney) and Clifford Chance (London), and as Associate to Justice Michael Kirby of the High Court of Australia. He has also worked as a researcher for UK Solicitor-General Ross Cranston, as senior trade adviser to the late Senator Peter Cook, and as a research fellow with the Progressive Policy Institute (Washington, D.C.). Andrew was awarded the Economic Society of Australia's Young Economist Award. This award, presented once every two years, is given to [i]"honour that Australian economist under the age of forty who is deemed to have made a significant contribution to economic thought and knowledge."[/i] Who else should we put on the list to replace Kim Carr, Chris Bowen, Martin Ferguson and Simon Crean?

42 long

22/03/2013Just watched Martin Fergusson give his spill guts speech. What's with these people? They talk to the "friendly" press, "Yes THAT press" and spill all their feelings and present all their actions in the best light and by inference state the others are wrong. They did no wrong in backing the guy who left Peter Garrett out to dry and who just left THEM out to dry. and who is the MAJOR FACTOR in the current malaise. Why don't they just go quietly and not continue to undermine Julia. They still pretend to wish her and the party the best at the same time as they push the Knife in deeper. Do these guys have a "latent" need for a confessional? None do it better than the "undertaker" Fawkner. who for years gives his "soul rejuvenating peptalk" to aid the party. It just provides ammunition for it's detractors, even though he means well.

Casablanca

22/03/201342 long Who is "undertaker" Fawkner?

Casablanca

22/03/201342 long, Just realised that you probably mean Senator the Hon John Faulkner. http://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Parliamentarian?MPID=5K4

Mangrove Jack

22/03/2013[quote]It is good to have someone who understands economics on board in TPS. You will be able to straighten us out if we stray too far from established wisdom.[/quote] Sorry Ad astra,it's the "established wisdom" that's the problem :-)

Tom of Melbourne

22/03/2013You'll be pleased to know that I have an honours degrre in economics.

janice

22/03/2013IMO (for what it is worth) Crean took the hit for the party and sadly, he cannot allow himself to be "outed" because for it to work in the long term the Rudd camp have to continue to believe he was on their side. I found it very telling when I heard Mr "pinstripe" Hartcher talking to Delroy last night. He was angry and shocked and proceeded to tell Delroy that Crean had done a deal with the Rudd camp, that he'd bring on the spill and give them his plus two or three more votes. But, said Hartcher, "he turned up with his vote only". Hartcher also went into a long tirade about how Bob Carr spent a couple of months 'slinking around the corridors of the House', talking to MPs and journalists, giving the impression he was looking to join the Rudd Camp. Hartcher wrote his column when he said Carr and Butler had crossed to the Rudd camp and predicted Gillard gorn by Friday (or was it Wednesday?) He (Hartcher) was furious when Carr strongly denied it all and said Hartcher might at least have asked him before publishing his column because he'd have told him he was wrong. Apparently when a journo approached Butler, he was told to p**s off. Hartcher signed off by saying that Ruddstoration is dead because no one will ever trust him again. Hartcher's written column left out a lot of what he said to Delroy when he was fuming after the ballot. I have noticed a number of journalists who'd been sold a pup over this Ruddstoration have been sounding off against Rudd. They are not happy to have been sucked in and made to look foolish idiots.

Pikiranku

22/03/2013Yes, one of the most fascinating and surprising things to come out of all this is the realisation that the press gallery actually believed a lot of that stuff they were writing. I'd assumed it was all part of a cynical and determined plot to undermine the Gillard government. But it seems they weren't cynical after all, they were just stupid. 'Sucked in' as my former students would say.

Casablanca

22/03/2013Pity that a few individuals from the Press Gallery won't do the honourable thing and fall on their sword. For a list of the main offenders, both individual and corporate see: [b]PM GORN Inaugural Leadershit Trophy.[/b] http://australiansforhonestpolitics.wordpress.com/2013/03/16/dead-woman-walking/

LadyInRed

22/03/2013I don't feel for the press gallery one jot. We knew it was all hype and we are not even in the know, we don't haunt the corridors of Canberra. There was a certain amount of glee in what they were reporting and writing, along with their over inflated sense of importance (particularly Uhlmann comes to mind, love the egg on his face). Pikiranku yes they were 'sucked in' but they also wanted to believe it. So, its a bit like the old "chicken, egg" question. They can be as angry as they like, but if they were played it was because it suited them. I bet the only thing they are really sorry about is that the game is over. Its not like Grattan didn't get told by us commenters that she was wrong constantly, or all the others were not constantly being told they were wrong, what would we in the 5th estate know? Well quite a lot as it now turns out. One good thing is the distrust the general public is now hightened - the old 'source inside Canberra' will elicit a groan and the derision it deserves. While they are pointing fingers I hope they do some soul searching for their own part in this. Did anyone see them asking after the result. What? You didn't have a vote? Well there was only one candidate. Yes, but you didn't even put it to the vote? One candidate means that person has the overwhelming majority......No but surely you should have voted......What for one candidate. That's not to wipe away the treachery of the MP's doing the white anting.

Tom of Melbourne

22/03/2013Until recently Catching Up (and a range of others) were arguing that Rudd returning would damage the ALP because of the loss of front bench talent. Now look at the front bench. On the back bench we have Rudd, Crean, Ferguson, Bowen, Carr, Fitzgibbon... The most talented people in the ALP are no longer of value in ministerial roles. Instead we have Gillard and Swan. This government under Gillard is a shambles.

Catching up

22/03/2013Tom, will be surprised if any will be that badly missed Start with Martin Ferguson, that some see as the minister representing the industry moguls. The Drum not bad. Cato and Wilkinson.

Jason

22/03/2013ToM, Stop your bitchin they were disloyal in trying to wreck the party! A lot (not all) of the problems the government has was caused by them! The ones I feel sorry for are their staffers, who lost their jobs today.

Tom of Melbourne

22/03/2013Bizarre and pathetic Catching Up. Apparently there were half a dozen ministers who didn't deserve their job.

Gravel

22/03/2013Well that was a very invigorating 30 hours or so of politics. Like many here, emotions were all over the place for a while, glad to see some of the old blokes falling on their swords, or pen knives or whatever. I have come to the conclusion that Labor had no chance of winning whilst things remained as they were. At least now with it all out in the open, and some new faces on the front bench at least now we may have some chance of getting heard above the roar of destabilisation. It will either be absolutely great for us, hopefully, or not as the case may be. I am glad Julia shone through the whole shamozzle.

42 long

22/03/2013The ministers who walked are not necessarily the most talented or respected. Had Rudd got in I would suggest that many more talented people wpould have resigned as they were NOT prepared to work with Rudd. Either way, there would have been a big reshuffle of the front bench. I suggest it would have ben more extensive with Rudd. Walking after a failed coup is normal. Worse things happen in other parts of the world where such a move is regarded as treason. The thing is that K Rudd being not stupid would have done this damage with the full knowledge that it would harm the party. Only a monstrous ego and blind ambition and a bit of revenge as well, would motivate him to do this. Kevin is more important than the success of the party, in his mind. HE is the problem. What little sympathy I may have held for him is gone. What a pity he didn't join the Liberal party. He and Malcolm would have had a lovely contest for pre-eminence of intellect.

Sir Ian Crisp

22/03/2013[quote][b]Bizarre and pathetic Catching Up. Apparently there were half a dozen ministers who didn't deserve their job. Tom of Melbourne [/b][/quote] Better slow down Tom. You might have to explain that to Catching Up because he is still catching up.

Sir Ian Crisp

22/03/2013[quote][b]All the punditry talk this morning is that Labor have screwed it up, no chance to win the next election. But I watched the 6 o'clock Channel Nine News last night and three times [u]Tony Abbott failed to answer a direct question, [/u]twice of those times pulled up by the newsreader because he hadn't answered a simple question (the third time the reporter visibly gave up). [...] Michael [/b][/quote] Well spotted Michael. It must be a 'first' in Australian politics. Oh wait...didn't the bird of paradox respond to questions with her banal "I've already answered those questions" in relation to her colourful and brief legal career? She hasn't answered the questions at all and the "I was young and naive" line she spins does not answer the questions. Maybe Abbott could respond with "I am young and naive" but don't hold that against me. Yeah sure.

Casablanca

22/03/2013Sir Ian, Abbott has made statements like 'don't judge me by things that I did 30 years ago' or WTTE. Thing is that Gillard has grown up whereas Abbort shows little evidence that he has changed significantly.

Ad astra

22/03/2013Janet Thank you for another great collection of Twittertalk. I hope Stephen Koukoulas’ wish is granted when the purge of the malcontents is complete: [i]” For the sake of the long run well being of the economy, it is to be hoped that the political debate in the months leading up to the election is on policy and not internal party noise. A policy debate on jobs, industrial relations, budget deficits or surpluses, reduction of government waste, tax reform, productivity issues, Commonwealth-state financial relations, the NBN, education and the environment, among many, all deserve detailed coverage before we decide which way we vote on September 14.”[/i] Read more: http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/3/22/federal-budget/enough-leadership-clamour-back-budgeting#ixzz2OG6IaY1J Bushfire Bill is, as usual, spot on, especially what he’s taking Hartcher apart. Casablanca Thank you for the link to the extraordinary list of dire predictions of PMJG’s political demise. I think Mark Twain had something to say about such predictions. I’ve bookmarked the list. The YouTube video is delightful. Bravo – the finnegans. http://australiansforhonestpolitics.wordpress.com/2013/03/16/dead-woman-walking/ LadyinRed What a disaster it is for free speech that much of the Fifth Estate is not just malevolent, but incompetent. When shall we predict the demise of political journalism? It is moribund. Can’t be long now.

Sir Ian Crisp

22/03/2013[quote][b]Sir Ian, Abbott has made statements like 'don't judge me by things that I did 30 years ago' or WTTE. [u]Thing is that Gillard has grown up[/u] whereas Abbort shows little evidence that he has changed significantly. Casablanca [/b][/quote] Casablanca, other than your opinion can you provide any evidence to support that assertion?

Mangrove Jack

22/03/2013 [quote]You'll be pleased to know that I have an honours degrre in economics.[/quote] I'm actually sorry to hear that Tom. They gave one to Martin Ferguson too :- (

2353

22/03/2013[quote]You'll be pleased to know that I have an honours degrre in economics.[/quote] And being such a free market ideologue Troll of Melbourne - how much did you pay for it and what on-line "Uni" did it come from?

Tom of Melbourne

22/03/20131. “Examine your values” – after the past 2 days, that seems like wise advice now. The criticism of Catching Up and others of some ALP MPs is just as scathing as it is of Liberal MPs. It’s a great reason to support the ALP. 2. An honours degree in economics from Monash is a qualification that many aspire to, but which few attain.

Jason

22/03/2013Sir Ian, "Casablanca, other than your opinion can you provide any evidence to support that assertion?" Time to put up big boy can you prove Casablanca wrong?

Tom of Melbourne

22/03/2013[i]”Thing is that Gillard has grown up[/i]” …young and naïve in her mid 30s. Grown from a shady lawyer who represented the interests of her lover/client without disclosing the potential conflict to her employer…into a duplicitous politician who breaks the written word to another MP…the one which allowed her to form government. Exactly what has she grown into?

Jason

22/03/2013ToM, 2. An honours degree in economics from Monash is a qualification that many aspire to, but which few attain. Quite happy being a tradesman! well 3 chef, patissier and rigger/crane driver

Tom of Melbourne

22/03/2013Yes Jason. I can imagine that is entirely suitable for you.

Jason

23/03/2013ToM, "honours degree in economics " But not one in law so fuck off with assertions! unless you wish to run a prosecution that not even the best legal minds in the opposition who are yet to find a law that was broken under the law of the day, you're just pissing in the wind. Nothing but a clapped out TROlL

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013Get over it Jason. You’re the last person in the blogosphere who could object. But the fact is that Gillard was a shady lawyer who represented the interests of her shady boyfriend/client without disclosing the potential conflict of interest to her employer, or the AWU. The then developed into an incompetent politician who has proven to have limited ethics, and no commitment to keeping her written word. No wonder she’s so admired.

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013“How to vote: first examine your values” How ironic. In the week that the ALP is exposed as a double dealing divided party, held together by a cabal of self interested warlords, we have Ad Astra prattling on about “values” Exactly what are the values that have been on display in the past couple of days? And why would anyone rely on the ALP under this dishonest leadership and poisonous structure?

Jason

23/03/2013ToM, It's not quite breakfast yet, can you please wipe the egg from your face after Thursday frying of your man?

jane

23/03/2013Crapstain, your mob of losers has been twisting and turning unsuccessfully for 20 years to try to make something out of nothing wrt the AWU beat up. Dodgy "witnesses" who have been completely discredited. No evidence of wrong doing except in their florid imaginations. So good luck with that. Got another 20+ years to keep proving that you're a mob of losers Liealot otoh, lying to the AEC, lying to the Parliament, lying about his slush fund, lying about the carbon price, lying about...pick a topic. NAS' JUST MAKING MY WAY THROUGH THE COMMENTS. ENJOY YOUR RELAXATION WITH THE RELLIES. ALL THIS STUFF IS VERY TESTING FOR THE NERVES AND THE FINGERNAILS. :D ausdavo, Crapstain's head is wedged so far up Liealot's backside all he can see is Liars shite. [quote]Maybe Abbott could respond with "I am young and naive" but don't hold that against me.[/quote] Are you referring to his slush fund whilst a member of the Howard government, or the fact that he lied to both the AEC and the Parliament about it? I doubt he was very young or naive then. Perhaps you refer to his prediction that Whyalla would be wiped off the map? Alcoa business decisions? Bullying a dying man? His involvement in the Ashby/Slipper debacle which Justice Rares called an attempt to pervert the course of justice? Gee, all very recent events. Neither young nor naive need apply. quote]This government under Gillard is a shambles.[/quote] You can thank the backgrounders for that lie. 42 long @12.29pm, [quote]MATES. I DIDN'T vote for RUPERT...[/quote] Brilliant! We should adopt this as our somewhat more than 3 word slogan. A vote for Abbott is a vote for Murdoch. Do you want Rupert Murdoch for PM? Murdoch is not a fit person to run a business in several countries, so why does the LNP think he's fit to be PM of Australia? And @7.07pm, afaic, ALL the backgrounders must be card carrying Liars members. They've certainly been doing the Liars work for them. No wonder the Liars have been so smug. WRT Rudd, has there ever been a man with such a monstrous ego? Willing to ruin Labor's chances of government for years to satisfy it. As for the idiots who were undermining the government at Rudd's behest, they'd better start looking in the situations vacant section, but who would employ a single one of them?

Truth Seeker

23/03/2013Jason, I wonder if Toms oM also got their honours degree in BS, lying and stupidity from Monash? Question of the week "What's with the ALP and the polls?" http://truthseekersmusings.wordpress.com/2013/03/22/whats-with-the-alp-and-the-polls/ Cheers :-) :-)

Michael

23/03/2013Here http://www.smh.com.au/national/away-from-the-uproar-we-missed-a-week-of-milestones-20130322-2glai.html?skin=text-only you can read about what the Federal government actually got done this last week while Tony Abbott was spouting bullshit about Australia being in "difficult times". He's a little teapot... with a very tiny spout.

lyn

23/03/2013Today’s Links A thousand deaths by @awelder Abbott hasn't even got his policy settings right shows the Coalition (and the press gallery) have been wrong-footed again - just like they were when Gillard thrashed Rudd last year http://andrewelder.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/a-thousand-deaths.html?spref=tw What I’m told! by rossleighbrisbane Canberra press gallery has attracted some criticism for reporting stories which consist of nothing but quotes from unnamed sources http://theaimn.com/2013/03/22/what-im-told/ ALP Noir- Serial Leader Slaughter by Chris Wallace between John Howard and Andrew Peacock, to which the Liberal Party was hostage for nearly a generation, knows this applies to both sides of politics http://powerhouse.theglobalmail.org/alp-noir-serial-leader-slaughter/ ‘Take your best shot’: Gillard’s political timeline by @ambiej Prime Minister Julia Gillard is a fighter. She’s challenged a sitting prime minister and won, held onto power during a hung Parliament, http://coffsoutlook.com/take-your-best-shot-gillards-political-timeline/ For F*ck’s Sake by @KayRollison If Julia Gillard walked across Lake Burleigh Griffin, the headlines would be ‘PM fails to swim lake http://theaimn.com/2013/03/22/for-fcks-sake/ What happened yesterday by Charles Richardson endless speculation, driven in particular by the Fairfax papers News Ltd was more obsessed with the media reforms http://blogs.crikey.com.au/worldisnotenough/2013/03/22/what-happened-yesterday/ It’s time to stop talking about Kevin. by @AshGhebranious Project Rudd, was in operation amazes me. People ask why she is lagging in the polls. Work it out. http://ashghebranious.wordpress.com/2013/03/22/its-time-to-stop-talking-about-kevin/ Rudd afraid to take a swing by Liam Quinn. his leader was forced to withstand an opposition barrage, and ultimately, the Labor Party is doomed http://www.upstart.net.au/2013/03/22/rudd-afraid-to-take-a-swing-2/ The CLP – cleaning up a “crazy” house in crisis? by @bgosford Adam Giles has to restore credibility to the troubled CLP government http://blogs.crikey.com.au/northern/2013/03/22/the-clp-cleaning-up-a-crazy-house-in-crisis/ Enough leadership clamour, back to budgeting by @TheKouk we should all be looking closely at the Coalition’s economic policy manifesto http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/3/22/federal-budget/enough-leadership-clamour-back-budge Twitter charts spike in traffic from #spill by @mumbrella number of tweets peaking at 1,504 tweets per minute at its peak, shortly after Kevin Rudd announced he would not challenge. http://mumbrella.com.au/twitter-charts-spike-in-traffic-from-spill-146998 New Idea journalism lets Abbott off the hook by Tristan Edis Coalition has been putting out complete and utter rubbish about the economic impacts of the carbon tax with almost complete impunity http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/3/22/policy-politics/new-idea-journalism-lets-abbott-hoo Condensed links by @btckr links I’ve collected relevant to stories on this website and in my blog The Sniper. http://truthinmediaresourcecentre.wordpress.com/2013/03/22/condensed-links/ Media reforms a historic opportunity missed by Denis Muller Have these events scared them, as Moss Cass’s proposal did in 1975, making them more amenable to Press Council reform,or will they be awash with hubris, thinking http://theconversation.edu.au/media-reforms-a-historic-opportunity-missed-12963 The built-in coup by @benraue Australia is the only Western English-speaking democracy where the choice of political leaders is made solely by that party’s members of parliament. http://www.tallyroom.com.au/12555#more-12555 A farcical performance under the Canberra big top by Barry Cassidy, Even at the last minute, journalists were running the argument as to why Rudd should return to the leadership, only to be left red-faced. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-03-22/cassidy-a-farcical-performance-under-the-canberra-big-top WITLESS: Gough didn’t die but federal Labor had its latest near-death experience by @vexnews while Crean did a wrong thing, he possibly had noble reasons in mind, http://www.vexnews.com/2013/03/witless-gough-didnt-die-but-federal-labor-had-its-latest-near-de The pond's in the mood for banning someone, anyone will do ... by Dorothy Parker once again it reflects Abbott's boofhead nature, and suspicion of his links to the Catholic church might well have been bubbling beneath the surface. http://loonpond.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/above-banned-covers-from-censor.html My strange depression about Julia v. Kevin By @SimonCopland One of the strongest senses I got was a feeling of sadness, and regret for what just happened. http://themoonbat.com/2013/03/22/my-strange-depression-about-julia-v-kevin/ Rudd: I'll never be Prime Minister By Jonathan Swan ''I think if anybody wanders into a journalists' office in the future from the Labor Party claiming to have a numbers sheet they will be met with gales of laughter http://www.northerndailyleader.com.au/story/1381870/rudd-ill-never-be-prime- Own Goaaaaaaal by @watermelon_man Yesterday in Australia we saw the media in full blown raw and uncut uncamouflaged action http://davidhortonsblog.com/2013/03/22/own-goaaaaaaal/ What’s with the ALP and the polls? such an obvious bias in the entire MSM, not to mention their ABC, and the main players are the ones that commission the polls http://truthseekersmusings.wordpress.com/2013/03/22/whats-with-the- Today’s Front Pages Australia Newspaper Front Pages for 23 March 2013 http://www.frontpagestoday.co.uk/index.cfm?PaperCountry=Australia

Ad astra

23/03/2013LYN'S DAILY LINKS updated: http://www.thepoliticalsword.com/page/LYNS-DAILY-LINKS.aspx

Jason

23/03/2013Aa, Mark Lathams take on Rudd. Mark Latham Thursday’s fiasco in Canberra may not have flushed out Kevin Rudd as a leadership challenger in a party room ballot, but it has exposed the delusional nature of his leadership ambitions. His hope that Labor might arrive at a cross-factional consensus on the need to restore him to The Lodge was shockingly misplaced. A majority of his caucus colleagues despise him with an intensity rarely seen in politics, even by the toxic standards of the modern system. To their credit, in a strong, principled act of defiance, these MPs have said they would rather die on their feet with Julia Gillard than live on their knees under Rudd. This is something high-prancing Tories will never understand – the guts and determination of people who believe in something bigger than themselves to make a stand, not because it’s easy or convenient, but because it’s the right thing to do. It’s an echo of the incomparable Ben Chifley: things worth fighting for, no matter the odds stacked against the cause of Labor. Maybe there is life in the old, battle-scarred beast after all. When the government’s senior figures went public in February last year with concerns about Rudd’s leadership style, some commentators thought it was hyperbole, overblown rhetoric in the white heat of a leadership challenge. The past fortnight, however, has confirmed the validity of this critique. Rudd’s style is dysfunctional and chaotic, not just in running a government but in his management of internal party affairs. Normally, in running for party leadership, candidates rely on a “Council of War”, a tight, hard-headed group of political professionals. When I defeated Kim Beazley in December 2003, for instance, I was fortunate to have highly skilled warriors like Laurie Brereton, Peter Cook and Gillard on my side. By comparison, Rudd’s operation has been amateur hour. He has encouraged the dregs of the Labor movement – the likes of Joel Fitzgibbon, Ed Husic, Justine Elliot and Alan Griffin – to destabilise the Prime Minister’s leadership on his behalf. There was never any plan for where this process might lead. It was chaos for the sake of chaos. It was disorder piled on disorder. Simon Crean’s sad and confused intervention in his two press conferences on Thursday, the second of which triggered the leadership spill, was simply a public manifestation of the hopelessness of this approach. Crean and the other co-conspirators were left stranded as their candidate failed to front for the ballot. They must be reflecting today on how badly they were used and abandoned by Rudd. As old Jack Lang used to say: “In politics, if you nurse a mug for long enough, he’s bound to die in your arms.” The most urgent repair job inthe party concerns the NSW Right. For the first time in a Federal leadership contest, the faction has been comprehensively routed. Its two leading Ruddites – Fitzgibbon and Chris Bowen – are diminished figures. Its only way forward is for a new generation of leaders, such as Jason Clare, to move beyond the Graham Richardson’s “whatever it takes” culture and develop new policy ideas and relevance. Clare should call on one of his predecessors in Blaxland, the greatest ever product of the NSW Right, Paul Keating, as a mentor for this project. The week’s leadership shambles also confirmed two disturbing aspects of Rudd’s character. The first is his willingness to allow dysfunctionality to swirl around him, as long as he remains at the centre of media attention. In Rudd-land, all coverage is good coverage, feeding his need for a daily hit of publicity. The second trait is an all-consuming thirst for revenge. Since he lost the prime ministership three years ago, Rudd has used every waking moment to destabilise and destroy Gillard’s leadership. He is a hater and a wrecker on a scale not seen in Labor politics since Billy Hughes and the First World War conscription split. Rudd once said that as a nation, Australia had reached a fork in the road. This is now true of his own direction in politics. He needs to understand that blind, unfocused revenge, practised over months, growing into years, has a habit of destroying those who foster it. The majority of caucus is now ridiculing Rudd and his hapless allies. His erstwhile supporters, having been chewed up and spat out publicly, are seething with anger. Tabloid newspapers have labelled him “Chicken Kev” – political death in a nation which prides itself on the importance of having a go. This is the world Rudd has created for himself. For anyone interested in running for elected office, it is a telltale lesson in the corrosive impact of unlimited revenge. I never thought I would say this, but I genuinely feel sorry for Rudd. We are witnessing the slow-burning demise of a highly talented individual, someone who once offered his party and the Australian people hope for a better future. To paraphrase the great Gareth Evans: the dogs are pissing on your swag, Kevin, it’s time to move on. http://www.afr.com/p/national/he_hater_and_wrecker_but_feel_sorry_zBrlyQ4WjKf9iWvD2eZzDO

Ad astra

23/03/2013Hi Lyn I'm working through yet another great set of links. I couldn't get the Cassidy link to work, so went to [i]The Drum[/i] and found it there. It is well worth a read, not only for its content, but also because it reveals Cassidy's attitude not just to the saga but to his journalist colleagues who have fed off Rudd-supporter leaks for years, and are now shown to have been played for the monumental suckers they truly are. We have said so for ages, but they would not listen. This link worked for me: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-03-22/cassidy-a-farcical-performance-under-the-canberra-big-top/4587342

Jason

23/03/2013Lets hope this spreads to all divisons of their organisation! The Canberra Liberals have admitted that they can no longer afford to employ full-time staff as the party struggles with debts in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Read more: http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/canberra-liberals-battling-money-troubles-20130322-2gluc.html#ixzz2OJXziOYI

Sir Ian Crisp

23/03/2013[quote][b]Sir Ian, "Casablanca, other than your opinion can you provide any evidence to support that assertion?" Time to put up big boy can you prove Casablanca wrong? Jason [/b][/quote] You're not very good at this JGuy. I'll most certainly put up just as soon as Casablanca provides a link which chronicles how the bird of paradox has grown up. A female who has roundheels and targets married men should not be considered as a person who has grown up. Link please.

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013Jane – [i]” As for the idiots who were undermining the government at Rudd's behest, they'd better start looking in the situations vacant section, but who would employ a single one of them?”[/i] this is the type of commentary that I find so hilarious. Despise ALP MPs!! The ALP will again preselect many of them, others will voluntarily retire. There’s almost half of the parliamentary party who prefer Rudd. They’re spoken about with the same vitriol normally reserved for Abbott. It’s funny when the ALP barrackers turn into cannibals.

Ad astra

23/03/2013Jason Many thanks for the Latham article, a good read.

Jason

23/03/2013"A female who has roundheels and targets married men should not be considered as a person who has grown up. WTF? So the men do it against their will do they? I can hear them now, no I'm married! please stop! don't throw yourself at me! why do I have to have sex with you? Yet if a man beds dozens of "married women" he's hailed a stud. Sounds like jealousy to me, your just bitter that not even the family dog finds you the least bit desirable

Sir Ian Crisp

23/03/2013And you JGuy still have a soft spot for Father Bruce and the 'attention' he showed to you ;) Still waiting for a link.

2353

23/03/2013[quote]An honours degree in economics from Monash is a qualification that many aspire to, but which few attain. [/quote] That's nice but how much did your degree cost and which on-line Uni did you get it from? NewsCorp this morning is moving on (not). Oakes is in full flight blaming everyone but himself as are the rest of the sorry crew. Its a sad indictment on the state of journalism in Australia that they actually believe the crap they produce (apparently). Hopefully The Guardian Downunder will be different.

Jason

23/03/2013Sir Ian, Don't waste your time on me old son!You can say it as often as you like(as you will) I DON'T CARE!

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013[b]EXAMINE YOUR VALUES!![/b] It is truly ironic. A party without scruples, and a leader without a moral compass, supported by those at war with many of their own MPs. That’s the party that represents Ad Astra’s “values”

Jason

23/03/2013Bushfire Bill's offering. bushfirebill March 23, 2013 at 10:36 am As many erstwhile Rudd supporters will be pissed off and let down by his behaviour as Gillard loathers who will be impressed by her toughness. The Poll Futures market is not good at the moment, but I wouldn’t write off a status-quo result in the next Newspoll. Rudd showed he doesn’t have the bottle. He and his henchmen connived for a spill this week. They got it and they didn’t turn up to participate. As a result the most senior of them have lost their careers, some of them going back decades. Don’t be surprised if there’s a dawning realization in thier heads – still hurting at the moment, but eventually – that they have been sold a pup. That contemptuous “I gotta ZIP!” yesterday at the end of Rudd’s presser put the zip on them too. What a way to have their careers concluded, with the man who betrayed them going off to his million dollar home feeling and sounding chipper at the outcome! They died in a ditch for nothing. Their “one last push” (or should that be “one last putsch”?) failed, with the usual mass casualties that this type of political trench warfare generates: in this case their heads sacrificed to Rudd’s ego. While they were worried – at least ostensibly – about the “future of the Labor Party” (a somewhat anachronistic one, given their constant references to the Hawke-Keating legacy), Rudd was on the phone to Chris Mitchell, keeping Rupert Murdoch himself – can anyone doubt Rupert didn’t get full reports? – informed of ersatz progress from the front. While Rudd said he’d never challenge, he was setting out to do just that last week. He ratted on his party, and he ratted on his co-plotters. He an his media urgers are now trying to blame Gillardall this. Gillard is the person who beat him three times: once in the ring with a KO in the first, and twice when he failed to even get into the ring. She didn’t trick him, or swindle him. She played fair, gave his supporters jobs after last February in the interests of good governance and they, at Rudd’s behest, leaked from cabinet table itself, causing cabinet processes to be overly secretive and shadowy, and then had the hide to criticise those necessarily covert processes that they had caused to be implemented by their leaky treachery. That they got their just desserts yesterday, and that Rudd happily praised them for their careers just sacrificed on the altar of his gutlessness, then pissed off for drinkies with Therese, is one of the supreme ironies of modern politics. They now have no power base, none at all. They are has-been “Labor elder statesmen” who have shown themselves to be politically inept, collectively treacherous, and personally naive, throwbacks to a long-gone era. Who will listen to them now? What weight can they bring to any future conniving on behalf of the pathetic paper tiger, Rudd? As this sinks in, expect any whingeing by them on TV, radio and to captive shills like Hartcher, as well as those working outright for the enemy, like Mitchell, to dry up. And as they stop they moaning, expect the stories about dissent in the Labor ranks to dry up too. They, and their Benny Cemoli, Rudd, are thoroughly discredited, washed up and forgettable. Rudd ceased to exist politically in 2010. It was, he thought, as if the newspaper, during these years of its enforced silence, had been dreaming, and now, reawakened, it had allowed portions of its former dreams to materialize in its pages along with its accurate, perceptive accounts of the actual situation. A blend of figments and sheer, stark reporting. Which ultimately would triumph? Soon, evidently, the unfolding story of Benny Cemoli would have the toga-wearing spellbinder in New York; it appeared that the march would succeed. And what then? How could this be squared with the arrival of CURB, with all its enormous inter-system authority and power? Surely the homeopape, before long, would have to face the incongruity. Read the story. It’s a good on. Substitute “Kevin Rudd” for “Benny Cemoli” and you’ll see what I mean. 50 years ago, in 1963, Phillip K. Dick predicted Kevin Rudd and predicted what happens to all chimeras. I would urge the few remaining Rudd supporters, believing more what they read in newspapers put out by Labor’s political enemies than what’s before their own eyes, to read it too.

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013Shorter Bushfire Bill -[b]I HATE MANY MEMBERS OF THE ALP CAUCUS!![/b] Well said Bushfire!

Ad astra

23/03/2013Jason Thanks for Bushfire Bill's offering today. As usual, it's good reading.

Jason

23/03/2013ToM, "That’s the party that represents Ad Astra’s “values” Just because you're a political whore who would sell his own mother if the outcome was right doesn't mean we all are! You come here day after day with all your confected outrage throw hissy fits, act like a princess and has the hide to questions other peoples values! ToM it's you who has no values, Your man Rudd had the shit kicked out of him on Thursday and as they say winner are grinners and the losers can please themselves.

ian

23/03/2013' A female who has roundheels and targets married men should not be considered as a person who has grown up. ' To drag a thought like that out of the depths of a corrupted mind is a pretty valid example of how strong the case is for the honest people.

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013[i]“Winners are grinners”[/i] Hilarious!! You’ve beaten your own party to a pulp!! Enjoy the victory.

Pikiranku

23/03/2013The press were caught out because they were lazy, self-deluding and unprofessional. Instead of doing their homework, confirming the information supplied to them, just simply doing their jobs, they grabbed, believed and disseminated what they'd been fed because it was what they personally wanted to believe. They should change their ways or change their jobs. There's another "gospel truth" that they accept and disseminate without question which I think they should take another look at. That's the "fact" that our PM is universally disliked by the electorate. I believe there's a great deal more admiration and support for - and trust in - Julia Gillard than the press would have us believe. I know that the posters on this blog and the Twitterati are relatively small groups in the overall scheme of things, but I also believe that such people are the tip of a vast iceberg. And there's a great deal of deeply committed support for the PM in both places. And on other blogs. The vituperative, clamorous, "Juliar" people may be louder at times, but they do not represent us all and may represent a far smaller group than their noise would suggest. The press might be wise to take a closer look at their assumptions on this issue before they get even more egg on their faces. Thanks, Jason for those two posts - Mark Latham and Bushfire Bill. Both have great insights. There's a four-letter word that some of these Labor MPs should have indelibly stamped on the back of their hands. And that's "T-E-A-M". They should cast aside their bloated egos and remind themselves that they, acting alone, are nothing. They are only effective as part of a team. And when that team makes a collective decision, whether it relates to their direction or their policies or their strategies or their leadership, the team has to pull together if it wishes to succeed. Those treacherous bastards deserve the ignominy and condemnation they're getting. If they were in a football team they'd have been out on the street long ago.

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013[i]” Those treacherous bastards deserve the ignominy and condemnation they're getting. [/i]” Love it!! Turn on a significant proportion of their own party. In other words – [b]GO LABOR!!![/b] (or some of it)

Ad astra

23/03/2013Folks As a postscript to this week’s drama, we can be critical of that part of the mainstream media that has been sucked in by the Ruddites into believing the nonsense they have been peddling for a couple of years now that the return of the Messiah is imminent, and that the Wicked Witch, who has been luring her followers to a fate worse than death, would soon be banished to outer darkness from which she came. They believed, for over two years now, that not only was the Messiah coming ‘very soon’, but that he would restore the former glory of his empire. A welcoming throng of supporters and media acolytes insisted that the prize was there for his taking this week, but when the prize was offered by his sycophantic admirers, the Messiah said, ‘not now’, and soon after, ‘not ever’. Some of his most ardent followers, deserted by their Messiah, fell on their swords, and others fled. Their media acolytes, conned for years into believing their story, convinced that they would eventually get the scoop, the exclusive that all journalists with hyper-inflated egos crave, finally realized that they had been led up the garden path time and again. They felt angry, humiliated, let down, and destitute. Their long running stories about the Messiah driving out the Wicked Witch evaporated in the proverbial puff of blue smoke, leaving proverbial egg all over their astonished faces. We see now how pointless it was for those journalists to respond to what the Ruddites told them, to believe their numbers, to give credence to their stories, and to make dire predictions based on what they said, not once, not twice, but scores of times. We hope they will learn from this bitter experience, but let’s not hold our breaths. But [b]we[/b] can learn. There are just a few who come here to post their worthless offerings. We all know who they are. They have nothing positive to say, nothing thoughtful that deserves consideration. All they offer is sneers, jibes, sarcasm and at times downright nastiness and even hatred. How many times have I implored bloggers here to totally ignore such comments, to scroll past them, to not give these people the attention they seem so desperately to crave? Yet over and again, some of you are sucked into responding to their provocation, presumably in the hope of changing their views or rebutting their statements. [b]Please understand that this is not possible.[/b] Their views are set in concrete, immovable, unchangeable. Responding is pointless, and serves only to encourage them to post further nonsense and provocation. Yet in the last day or so we’ve had another round of to-ing and fro-ing between them and other bloggers here. [b]Frankly, I’m fed up with the pointless interactions between these people and the sensible bloggers, as I’m sure others who visit here are. May I therefore plead with all here who find these people a waste of time to completely and permanently ignore the paltry comments they make. Let’s not be conned by these people like the MSM journalists were by the Ruddites.[/b]

TalkTurkey

23/03/2013[b]The RuddPuddle Traitors someone has called [i]Leeches[/i] But they're [i]worse[/i] than Leeches, they're [i]TICKS![/i] Leeches are innocent blood-sucking creatures, But TICKS inject POISON - The [i]PRICKS![/i][/b]

bob macalba

23/03/2013Agree Ad, polls and trolls, both full of useless poo anyhow the poms recognise a good thing when they see it http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/21/australians-julia-gillard the right whingers are starting to get us a bad name

Casablanca

23/03/2013AA, You said: [i]We see now how pointless it was for those journalists to respond to what the Ruddites told them, to believe their numbers, to give credence to their stories, and to make dire predictions based on what they said, not once, not twice, but scores of times. We hope they will learn from this bitter experience, but let’s not hold our breaths.[/i] I am reminded of what my mother used to say to us kids when we gave her [i]'the devil [read brother, sister playmate] made me do it' type excuse.[/i] Her response: [i]'If he/she told you to put your head in the oven would you do it?'[/i] Of course, this response left us without a rational leg to stand on. I think that it was Tony Wright in yesterday's Press who revealed that it was not uncommon to receive a call at home in the early hours from a leaker who would leave a cryptic but clear message about the day's likely leadership challenge. He claims that they were anonymous callers. These calls were clearly taken by the MSM as something that absolved them from writing about anything else but the gossip. It just astounds me too that holders of high Ministerial office drove this disloyal undercover intrigue. The Press Gallery & MSM are just a bunch of lazy pattsies and gossip columnists.

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013A Astra is right. There is absolutely no need for ALP supporters to argue and challenge those with other politiacal views…because the ALP barrackers are obviously entirely capable to having the most vitriolic arguments among themselves.

ian

23/03/2013Any chance of getting 'stfu' like on PB Ad? I can resist anything except temptation. The hate filled, ethically corroded and bereft of morality do make it hard. You do realise that one unintended consequence of promising not to reply to the trolls is, in the interests of fair play and hypocrosy, I could no longer post on right wing sites. That I shall have to deprive them of much needed nose, tear and backside wiping, when that big, bad Prime Minister foils another corrupt plan, is a cross I shall bear....happily. However, Ad Astra, be warned. I will not be responsible for the increased resonance of chests being beaten, garments rent asunder nor the chalkboard squeakiness of gnashing teeth. When that volcanoe of angst spews out of their mountain of impotence I shall deny any involvement. They need a slow, gentle guidance to the lamplight of rationality. It is the only thing that will save them. But, if you ask me to abandon right wing trolls to their own fate. I shall do so.

bob macalba

23/03/2013Another good piece by a 'pom' http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/22/julia-gillard-adoption-apolog nothing partisan, nothing mendacious just a story to be told,

bob macalba

23/03/2013sorry try again http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/22/julia-gillard-adoption-apology

Catching up

23/03/2013Bushfire, many of those, especially a couple who have been around to know better, have similar egos to Rudd. One or two do not have much faith in the ability of women to lead. As for the PM sleeping around, is it that they are surprised that some find her sexaully attractive. Hope they remember, those men happened to be separated at the time. I really thought we had moved on from the times when single women must live virtuous lives. That sleeping around is only allowed to men. Tom,did you miss the lecture on debt and the economy while studying for that degree. What I noticed, the likes of Barnaby Joyce were challenged when saying the economy is bad. After all, if the Leaser of the Opposition cannot identify the problems, how he has the answers. What Abbott and Co are doing, is offering solutions to problems that do not exist. Yes, there are plenty, but they are not what the Abbott and his ilk are spruiking. Heard Laurie Oakes say that Abbott is making a fool of himself, clasping that pamphlet, to his breast. Oakes describes it as being light weight with very little information. Abbott has been very lucky this week. There are many questions he needs to answer. Where does Albanese stand on this. Albanese did say he stood by Rudd last time, not because he supported him, but he did not believe an elected leader should be shafted. He also, if my memory is correct, that after the last spill and Rud d lost, he would support Gillard. He reminded us of that a couple of days ago. Albanese was in Rudd's office. Was it as a supporter of Rudd or Gillard. This would be one man the PM would not want to lose. There was suppose to be 46. I suspect Albanese was counted in that number. There were 20 in the office. I suspect that would be all that there was. Rudd did not want a spill. His agenda was to allow the turmoil to continue. His refusing to stand is proof of this. One should always be suspicious of a man filled with vengeance. I do hope the media and their camera men start following the likes of Abbott, Hockey and Joyce around, instead of Rudd. Yes, I do believe the PM can turn things around. The public's attention span is short. Many do not seem interested in what has occurred, or do not understand. What should cease, is the media's ability to keep the turmoil going. It would not surprise me, to see a change in the behavior of Rudd, coming in behind the PM.

Ad astra

23/03/2013TT, Casablanca, ian, Catching up, bob macalba Thank you all for your comments and [i]The Guardian[/i] links, bob. What a pity some Aussies can’t see things the way some Poms do! I too believe that with a new and loyal team, and with Rudd committed to give up his quest, Labor stocks will rise, not right away, but steadily as focus shifts onto policy and accomplishments, and Abbott’s lack of policy and costings become starkly apparent. We are now off to Melbourne; back tomorrow,

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013Apparently Kate Ellis is one of the highly talented people who will be promoted given the departure of so many talentless ministers. Here’s a photo of Kate demonstrating her ministerial competence - http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2010/04/04/1225849/624103-kate-ellis-in-grazia-magazine.jpg If only Abbott was so competent.

jane

23/03/2013Jason, do you find it as enlightening as I do to know that misogyny coupled with stupidity is the main ingredient in the Liars and their barrackers? They find it impossible to accept that if married men can't keep it in their pants, it's their responsibility. Accept responsibility for their own actions? Perish the thought. It's always someone else's fault. That's the adult way with the Liars Party and their sycophants. I think that's why they like the idea of the Devil; if all else fails blame him. lol Pikiranku @12.39pm, absolutely agree with you. The msm is casting about for someone else to blame for their own lazy incompetence, complacency, hubris and unprofessional behaviour. Time was that given a juicy tidbit, they would hunt around for confirmation that they weren't being taken for a ride. I noticed that when watching the Hartcher interview provided in Lyn's links. He still clings to the delusion that Rudd had the numbers, it just needed Crean's fellow dissidents.......or a feather duster or [b]something, anything![/b] As I remarked further up, the leakers will have to look in the situations vacant columns. However, I don't think that there will be anybody rushing to employ them, unless it's to clean toilet blocks. I can't see any business giving them a job where discretion and loyalty are required. I suppose they could always get jobs with the Liars Party or Rupert; they've demonstrated in spades they have the two most essential traits necessary for entré into either organisation; disloyalty and treachery. If there was time, I think they'd already be disendorsed and other candidates in their place campaigning. As it is, that may not be necessary because I think there is distinct possibility that Labor voters will vote them out, hopefully for Independents of the calibre of Windsor. And perhaps that's what we need-get rid of the poison and start afresh with candidates who are not rats. I also read wtte that it was a wise move by the PM to have already announced the election date, so that that she wouldn't be prey to the msm pack and the Liars hysterically demanding an election NOW! Which adds to my suspicion that this has been a carefully planned manoeuvre to flush out the 5th columnists.

Jason

23/03/2013jane, Yes it's sad they still think that way!Next we'll hear it was the "rape victims" fault because she wore a short skirt, or dared walked the street at night trying to get home.

TalkTurkey

23/03/2013Here's a Rudd story of melancholy relevance, especially to me. I think you'll find it worth the read. * The defeat of a previous Member for Kingston 1983-96, the late Gordon Bilney, was bemoaned years later in a SMH article by Alan Ramsey, one of the finest journalists in the land (and partner to Laura Tingle, ditto.) You may read the whole of Alan Ramsey's article here: (or read this whole story first would probably be better.) http://www.smh.com.au/news/opinion/in-praise-of-certain-pms-past-and-present/2008/02/08/1202234162182.html?page=2 In the article Ramsey quotes Gordon's letter to a colleague at some length. I have posted links to it before - some here are aware of my personal interest - but one part of it is especially haunting. And [i]intensely[/i] ironic. Background: Gordon was a career diplomat, lifetime Member of the ALP, and close personal aide and friend to Gough Whitlam, who in his first term, beside being PM, had assumed the Foreign Affairs portfolio. Gordon was Gough's Liaison Officer to the Foreign Affairs Department, and an outspoken supporter of the ALP. When Labor was ousted in the Kerr~Fraser Coup of 1975, Fraser, in a Long Night of Long Knives, amongst other deliberate score-settling bastardry, kicked Gordon upstairs by *promoting* him to High Commissioner to the West Indies, Australia's least-favourite embassy, due to the wantonly-violent nature of the Jamaican society at the time - and Gordon had two little daughters. He was based in [i]Kingston[/i], Jamaica. He returned to Australia in 1983, (the heyday of the champion stayer Kingston [i]Town[/i]) to take the [i]seat[/i] of Kingston in SA from Grunt Chapman, a win made far sweeter by Gordon's personal issues with the odious Howard. In the piece Ramsey quoted Gordon as saying: (here read [i]carefully, emphasis mine ...[/i]) [i](Remember,this is Gordon, to a colleague) ...[/i] "[Here's] a true story. When [early last year] Kevin was moving the motion at ALP Conference to have EGW [i.e. Gough Whitlam~ TT] made a Life Member of the ALP, he recalled in his speech that, as a 15-year-old at Queensland's Nambour High School in 1973, he had written to Gough asking [i]how one became a diplomat[/i]. Gough (Rudd went on) replied personally, as the then foreign minister [as well as prime minister], advising him to get a good university degree and learn a foreign language. So he did, and (as we say) the rest is history. [i]Now you would know better than most that Gough Himself, though He signed it, did not personally draft that letter: but rather one of His personal staff with experience in that area. [b][u]Will this be my major claim to fame? We shall see[/u].[/b][/i] "It is a good feeling just at present, a bit akin (I imagine) to having a long hot shower after being unjustly shut up in a Sudanese prison. At least. [i]Whatever else Rudd does, he has rid us of the lying, morally compromised and downright evil little turd we have had to put up with for nearly 12 years.[/i] (I wouldn't normally be so polite, but we are now in the season of goodwill towards all men.) I hope however that spirit of Christian charity doesn't extend to Downer over the oil-for-food $300m, or to Andrews/Ruddock over the Haneef thing, though I fear the temptation to let bygones be bygones may not be resisted. As it shouldn't be." Poor Gordon. Isn't that sad. On the Irony scale it's a Ten, Plus. "...the lying, morally compromised and downright evil little turd we have had to put up with for nearly 12 years ..."! Well not 12 years, but three anyway. [i]And couldn't that be Rudd's exact description![/i] The difference being that the Rodent was the clear and avowed enemy, whereas Rudd has been the secret enemy within, ever since the election exploiting for his own vindictive ends the precariously-hung nature of the Parliament - which itself was a chance outcome of his very own venom for *J*U*L*I*A* since his dumping months before. Oh yes I loathe and despise Howard, the nastiest reactionary PM ever ... But to do what Rudd has done, to his friends, to his Party, and in the end to the People of Australia, is so boggling, so petty and [i]so[/i] "downright evil" I can hardly believe it could ever have happened. I'd have a Taipan in my sleeping bag before I'd want Rudd as PM again. Poor Gordon. Should "the spirit of Christian charity" ever be extended to Rudd? Ordinary declared enemies such as the Turks in WWI, it's fairly easy. Japanese torturers in WWII it's harder, but at least they were still our declared enemy. Creeps like Howard who calls dogs on his own countrymen - now we're getting personal - Yet Gordon Biney appears to have made allowance even forgive some of them. But TRAITORS! - of whom Rudd is the chief and the most despicable ... Well you know how they get treated in most societies. They are the hardest of all to forgive, and for Rudd and his chief plotters, I won't be in the mood until they're out of the Parliament and (as if!) deeply contrite. And maybe not even then. The bastards.

Catching up

23/03/2013Jane, I have one that I would love to vote out. Have been aware for a long time where she stands. Was standing beside Rudd, in that very small crowd when he spoke on Thursday. The dilemma is, that one cannot do that, without voting the Labor government and the PM out. In the past, I would vote for an independent, with preference for Labor. I feel that the numbers will be so tight, this action is not possible. I am in a region and a seat that could only be thought of safe Labor. Many seats fell last time. It is mainly populated by the likes of those idiots, that's where interviewed at the Rooty Hill Club through the week. Those who said this PM has done nothing for them. On a day, when they are receiving big rises in their pensions alone. I wonder where they think that rose came from. I wonder if they really believe Abbott will not in one way or another, take in away from them. I despair sometimes with the thinking of many in my age groups.

TalkTurkey

23/03/2013[b]The RuddPuddle Traitors are sometimes called [i]Leeches[/i] But they're [i]much[/i] [i]worse[/i] than Leeches - They're [i]TICKS![/i] Leeches are just honest blood-sucking creatures, But [i]TICKS[/i] inject [i]TOXINS![/i] The [i]PRICKS![/i][/b]

TalkTurkey

23/03/2013Not Biney! BILNEY FFS! :)

Catching up

23/03/2013Just had a thought. The new 24/7 news circle means that nothing hangs around much longer that that. Today's story is replaced by a new one tomorrow. If that is what counts, the things that will stay in memories is how they see the PM behave and react, not what is said against her. If that is true. What will remain from Thursday, are those two wonderful speeches of the PM. The jeering of Abbott, and that blue pamphlet, that is full of nothingness, he clasped to his chest. Maybe the alleged failure of the PM not getting the message across, works both ways.

lawriejay

23/03/2013Catching up : Bill Shorten says Rudd picked up 6 voters from his ONLY attempt Feb 2012 (31 votes) this time 37. His only Attempt - of four occasions opportunity presented itself 2012 was the only time he contested.

Jason

23/03/2013If the week hasn't been bad enough! Insiders ABC‏@InsidersABC22 Mar Huge #Insiders on Sunday. Barrie Cassidy interviews Christopher Pyne, panel @latingle Niki Savva & Gerard Henderson #auspol

Casablanca

23/03/2013AA, You said: [i]Yet over and again, some of you are sucked into responding to their provocation, presumably in the hope of changing their views or rebutting their statements. [b]Please understand that this is not possible. [/b][/i] Mea Culpa! I made one response to Sir Ian to rebut his point that Abbott had not/would not use similar words to Gillard in respect of deeds done as a younger person. Sir Ian suggested that LOTO had never made an excuse like the[i] 'I was naive'[/i] one. Well, [i]‘Don’t judge me by things that I did thirty years ago’[/i] says much the same on face value except that [i]I was naive[/i] is reflective and Abbott’s words are in the passive form and imply blame on someone else or event. Gillard, as we know has not denied that certain events occurred. Abbott by contrast has prevaricated in response to publication of certain events in his past, especially, but not only activities of his student days. He hopes that at the very least, people will dismiss the charges with a shrug and the throwaway line that [i]'Boys will be boys'.[/i] His response to Mark Riley about the[i] 'Shit happens' [/i]remark captured on official Defence Department video was an interminable period (about 20 secs) of head nodding and then he says [i]'I've given you the response you deserve'[/i]. So according to Abbott, a journalist asking a question deserves intimidation and threat. http://www.novafm.com.au/video/s-happens-tony-abbott-nods-mark-riley As David Speers from Sky says in the video of the interview, [i]'Tony Abbott does have a certain amount of rage that he's not able to deal with...in a more amiable way'. 'He shows ..silent fury ..its quite an extraordinary confrontation' [with Mark Riley][/i] In a recent interview the PM recalled a comment from Tony Blair about politics becoming more brutal. I suggest that we have no better example of brutality than in the behaviour of Tony Abbott in QT, especially in 2012 with his persistent Motions to Suspend Standing Orders. Anthony Albanese has captured this in colourful language that is nonetheless insightful: [i]Tony Abbott is engaged in the longest dummy spit in history.[/i] To me, Abbott’s like that kid in the Supermarket who throws a tantrum because his Mum says that he cannot have that lolly. [i]'I was naive'[/i] is much more reflective than Abbott's[i] 'It didn't happen' or 'I don't remember...' or 'Don't judge me by what I did thirty years ago' or 'Shit happens'. [/i] Compare too his eventual answer to Mark Riley which was [i]'I've given you the answer you deserve'[/i] with Prime Minister Gillard calling a no holds barred interview with the Press Gallery where she fielded questions from the lion's den for almost an hour about the AWU matter. Sometime later she also called on a debate in QT where she gave Tony Abbott the opportunity, under privilege, to lay out the questions/charges that he had been saying were evidence of her criminal conduct. Not surprisingly, Abbott squibbed that challenge too. In other words he did not have any reliable evidence but was simply engaging in rhetoric to smear the PM. http://australianpolitics.com/2012/11/26/gillard-awu-slater-and-gordon-press-conference.html Abbott's [i]'Don't judge me...'[/i] is a particularly interesting line, one might even say hypocritical in the extreme, when you review the Hansard QT record for the relentless focus by Abbott on Gillard's role in the AWU matter. Hypocritical too when you consider Abbott's central role in the Australians for Honest Politics slush fund and his refusal to divulge donor details to the Australian Electoral Commission. Hopefully, his connivance in this matter will be revealed if David Ettridge manages to sue Abbott. http://www.independentaustralia.net/Wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/IN-THE-SUPREME-COURT-OF-QUEENSLAND.pdf The Slipper/Ashby matter also seems to have Abbott’s fingermarks all over it. My opinion of Tony Abbott is that he is not PM material. I base that on my response to his actions and words in public life, which I have observed over many years. I bring my life experiences and knowledge of human behaviour to bear on these judgements. I find much of his behaviour, even now, as more like that of a self-centered teenager. We rarely see a grown-up Tony. That is my opinion. That is my viewpoint. Abbott exhibits, to my view, a lot of native cunning; he is a head-kicker by temperament, he is uncomfortable about his ‘softer’ side, but not averse to trying to put it on display when his survival requires it, hence his cynical use of his wife, and particularly his daughter’s, as political props. People like Sir Ian and the real trolls who trawl around political blogs are seldom engaged in truth seeking or even in discussion. They are mud-slingers in the main. Occasionally, Sir Ian has made thoughtful remarks and I would be happy to engage with [i]that[/i] Sir Ian in sensible balanced discussions. As for ‘evidence’ and links to sites, I really can’t imagine facts swaying the mind of someone who would write [i]A female who has roundheels (sic) and targets married men should not be considered as a person who has grown up.[/i] The statement suggests that a female who wore block heels or wedge heels or flatties when she ‘targets’ married men would be considered as a grown-up. I want evidence and links to prove that women who wear ‘round heels’ cannot be considered as a grown-up. It’s outrageous that apparently such women are allowed into Parliament. No male parliamentarian is safe. I repeat an apposite quote from a piece by Anne Summers:[i][b]While I was watching the ugly events of Thursday afternoon unfold, I was trying to remember the last time Australia had a perfect prime minister. Or even one who was universally popular.[/b] [/i] Read more: www.smh.com.au/.../...ws-cycle-20130321-2girw.html Character and probity are important in a PM as are their administrative and management abilities. Unusual ear lobes, funny accents or the jock-walk and annoying speech mannerisms are probably not great predictors of how a person will discharge the office of Prime Minister. So, as the election is relatively close let us move our focus to policy matters and also to compare and contrast offerings from the main parties.

bob macalba

23/03/2013wot, no bumbling blustering bombastic buffoon piers to make it a hat trick.

Jason

23/03/2013bob macalba "wot, no bumbling blustering bombastic buffoon piers to make it a hat trick." Sadly the year isn't over yet! the day will come when Piers Savva and Henderson are the the only panelists and to make matters worse Uhlmann will be the host!

Tom of Melbourne

23/03/2013[i]” as the election is relatively close let us move our focus to policy matters and also to compare and contrast offerings from the main parties.”[/i] Main offerings from the ALP – its own supporters can’t stand about 1/3 of the (former) ministry, and about 40% of the MPs. Policy matters – ‘no carbon tax’, a big committee, community consensus before any change, no change before 30 June 2013 …but let’s not discuss political honesty and the ethics of a politician who breaks the very written commitment that allowed them to move into the Lodge.

bob macalba

23/03/2013Jason Put Mark Latham on as an extra panelist and watch him take all their crappy lies and opinions apart, now that i would watch

Jason

23/03/2013bob macalba, Wouldn't that be great TV! For those who missed a bit of Latham the other night http://video.cairns.com.au/v/103970/Paul-Murray-Live-Mark-Latham-and-Chris-Kenny

2353

23/03/2013According to the Curious Snail this morning - Rudd is offering to market the ALP with the PM between now and the election in Queensland. If it is true (it did come from a NewsCorp publication), it would actually be a good idea. Hopefully the PM will accept in the spirit it appears to be offered - to keep Abbott out of Kirribilli (You don't think he would live in Canberra do you! - sorry DMW!).

NormanK

23/03/2013Casablanca I won't sully this site with a graphic description of what 'roundheels' means colloquially but here is a link that spells it out pretty clearly. http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=round%20heels Another excellent post, by the way. I think Mr Abbott may have been misinterpreted with his 'shit happens' comment. He was trying to be one of the boys and acknowledge, in their own language, that some circumstances are beyond anyone's control. The best laid plans of mice and men and all that. I don't think he was being dismissive of a man's death. Mark today down in the diary - I defended Abbott. The rest of your post was superb and right on the money.

Casablanca

23/03/2013 [b]Australians don't know how lucky they are [/b] A leadership threat to Julia Gillard seemed churlish, given the strong economy – but disgruntled Australians are a common breed [i]Last June, Australia celebrated its 21st. No, not a birthday or coming of age, but the completion of its 21st consecutive year of economic growth. Yup, you heard right, 21 years. Of growth. 21.[/i] http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/21/australians-julia-gillard

jane

23/03/2013Jason, unfortunately that sort of thinking is still alive and well, but has lost a lot of credibility. It's like saying a robbery victim brought it on themselves because they had some money in their wallet. Some people just don't want to understand that they don't have the right to violate anyone, because they want what others have. CU, you're in a dilemma. I guess the only thing you can do is hold your nose and vote for the creature, but let her know in no uncertain terms what you think of her and why you've had to resort to voting for her. I have every confidence that she will be ashamed of herself after a dressing down by you. Loved the Mark Latham, Chris Kenny stoush. Latham is a very good performer, indeed. I always wondered why he went off the deep end; now I know why. It's a pity, he would have demolished the Rodent. And what was wrong with that handshake, ffs? TT, 5th columnists is what they are, pure and simple. And your brother, the great Gordon Bilney, was absolutely spot on wrt the Rodent. A "lying, morally compromised and downright evil little turd" I would amend that characterisation to a "lying, morally compromised and downright evil gigantic turd". CU, you are in a dilemma. I guess you might have to hold your nose and vote for her under the circumstances, but she should be in no doubt that you are voting to keep this government alive and will be agitating for her disendorsement. I don't have your problem; I live in the execrable Patrick Secker's electorate. However, he was disendorsed so there will be a different Liars Party toerag to place last on my ballot. Casablanca, I have to confess that I have been a troll reinforcer on this thread (and at other times). Generally, I try to just scroll past them, but every so often I bite. Having said that, your points about Liealot's lack of maturity are entirely valid, imo. He constantly implores us not to judge him for what he no doubt classes as youthful indiscretions. The reason for avoiding the consequences of those "indiscretions" relied soley on the depth of the family pockets. But has he taken a lesson from this? Yes he has. He can always rely on someone else to get him out of a scrape, whether it's bullying or verbal abuse and intimidation. Someone, like the execrable Anal Jones, will always go in to bat for him. The lesson he has learned is that he doesn't need to reflect on his behaviour and behave like an adult, because an adult has always smiled indulgently and smoothed things over. He says "don't judge me' but is the first to pass judgement. As for the women with round heels jibe, its author apparently subscribes to the attitude Jason described in his comment @3.28pm. For the author of that jibe, "grown up" men who stray from the marriage bed don't need to take responsibility for their behaviour; it's always the hussy's fault. Pathetic and self serving.

Catching up

23/03/2013jane, we do not have to judge Abbott for what he did back in his Uni days. We can judge him for lying about it now.

Casablanca

23/03/2013NormanK Thank you for your compliments. Actually, I was aware of the meaning of round heels but I must concede that I only found out after I became suspicious at the two words, [i]round & heels[/i] being run together as one. My response was supposed to be tongue-in-cheek. Like I said, [i] It’s outrageous that apparently such women are allowed into Parliament. No male parliamentarian is safe. [/i] I was also sending up the absurdity of the statement from a grammatical & syntactical perspective. Had Sir Ian said something like [i]according to his moral code, he could not condone a women who had an affair with a married man, becoming Prime Minister[/i] then one could have debated that view. I take it that no male PM has ever had an affair/relationship with a fellow parliamentarian, or, if that were the case, it would not have elicited any condemnation or smutty comment from the Sir Ian's of this world. It’s never the fault of the married man is it?

jane

23/03/2013CU, I'm not passing judgement, but pointing out that he learned absolutely nothing as a consequence of those youthful "indiscretions". His behaviour hasn't changed since he punched that wall, his girlfriend gets pregnant and what does he do? Runs away. Craig Thomson moves to the opposition benches; what do Liealot and Prissy do-they run away. Is that the behaviour of an adult? Childish jibes and tantrums because he couldn't have the toy he wants-the PMship. The Prime Minister's father dies, more appalling behaviour from this juvenile oaf. And the lying; not the sort of lies an adult would tell, but the sort teenagers would tell. Then there's the smugglers and the compulsion to dress up and show off teenager style. This boyman has never grown up. He throws stones on people's rooves and runs away, knocks on doors and runs away, ties crackers to cat's tails and runs away, dips girls plaits in inkwells and thinks it's funny. That's another reason he hates this PM-she's a grown up behaves like one. When she catches him throwing stones on HER roof she gives him a bollocking, tying crackers to terrified animal's tails, he gets another bollocking, dipping plaits, it goes without saying. This sort of behaviour is not entirely confined to Liealot, but is exhibited by Sloppy and Prissy. Catcalling the Prime Minister of this country in the corridors of Parliament House says a great deal about them. Childish, pig faced private school bullies heckling the public school kid. Unfortunately for them, she's smarter, cooler and an adult, things they will never be no matter what their chronological age is. Alaexander Downer x2, imo and just as stupid.

AS

23/03/2013Many, many comments here, too may to read before I add mine. I find myself in a curious position. Although I have personally benefit from many LNP policies, my personal (and political) preference is the opposite. For example, personally I did very well out of AWAs. My first one resulted in a 17% pay rise on signing plus 8% every year for my performance plus a retention bonus. Similarly, the rebate on private health insurance was a lovely bonus at tax time. By I know that I'm well off, I have lots of choices in life and I don't NEED any of those. I'm more than happy for an ALP government to get rid of them and share more with people on lower incomes. So, I will always vote for the ALP. Sure, there mayo be some bastards in the ranks and they do some stupid things, but the whole concept of politics organised around labour (ie. honest effort) is more appealing than politics organised around business.

NormanK

23/03/2013Casablanca Sorry about that. :$ Guess I need to re-tune my inner ear to better recognise tongue-in-cheek. :D You were right to pick up on it though. That particular author does plumb the depths.

Catching up

24/03/2013Jane, no way I was having a go at you. Was saying tongue in cheek, that we do not have to go back to the distant past to pass judgement. What I meant to say, we can judge him for lying about that past, at this time. I read somewhere today, when Simon Crean made his speech after being appointed Labor Leader, Mr. Howard turned his back to him and went on with reading or writing. This was the first time a leader did this. I thought Australians believe in being a good sport. That means one respects their opponents. Should that not carry over to politics. This lack of respect for the official positions and hatred of opponents does nothing to create a civil and decent society. It should not be about disrespect and hatred. I just do not understand the need to oppose on that level.

Casablanca

24/03/2013NormanK @ March 23. 2013 07:45 PM Mark Riley, the political reporter and interviewer did not imply that Abbott was being [i]dismissive of a man's death[/i]. The one to do so was the Sky Newsreader in his introduction. He said that [i]Abbott made an insensitive remark about the death of an Australian soldier.[/i] Mark Riley's focus was on the fact that in the six weeks between the soldier's death and Abbott's visit to Afghanistan, the LOTO had been criticising the Government for not properly arming the troops and therefore of negligently contributing to the death of Lance Corporal Jared McKinney. In Afghanistan, once Abbott was informed by US Brass in charge of the Australians that some mistakes had been made but that the soldier's were appropriately armed, he said, [i]Nah, it's pretty obvious that..um...well sometimes shit happens'.[/i] I have no doubt that this was meant as a folksy, blokey understatement. Whether it is an appropriate comment from a senior politician and possible Government Leader to make to a high ranking soldier from another country who has just defended your charge that there was inadequate armoury is a pertinent question. At the time, in late 2012, Major General John Cantwell AO. DSC was said to be very angry about the criticisms about lack of materiel support for the Australian army. You would have to be suspicious as to why Abbott's staff opposed the release under FOI of the official Defence Department video. Riley said that it had taken 3 months for his FOI request to be granted. I think that Riley was more than fair in giving Abbort the express opportunity to explain his remarks and the context in which they occurred. The video lasts for only six minutes but there are sub-titles for the remarks of both the US officer and Abbott. How many others would defend Abbott on this matter? http://www.novafm.com.au/video/s-happens-tony-abbott-nods-mark-riley For the grieving family, it was possibly intolerable to hear Abbott effectively saying that Lance Corporal McKinney died because of Australian Government negligence, rather than at the hands of the enemy. Abbott, along with the PM attended the funeral. You may recall that Lance Corporal McKinney's widow went into premature labour outside the Church, following the funeral. Fortunately, she gave birth to their son later that day in hospital. http://www.defence.gov.au/minister/107tpl.cfm?CurrentId=10867

NormanK

24/03/2013Casablanca I might have to crawl back into my shell. I seriously misinterpreted your reference to the 'shit happens' incident. We are in furious agreement. So much so that I have a comment sitting on my scribble pad that lays out exactly what you have just posted (only not as eloquently, passionately or comprehensively). Yes indeed the real story that should have had more airtime is that Abbott politicised a soldier's death; was shown to have been completely wrong; and never once apologised to all of the loved ones of serving and past personnel who may have begun to fret that the Australian government was not looking after them adequately.

Casablanca

24/03/2013Cheers NormanK. I'm glad to read that we are now in [i]furious agreement[/i]. In fact, I cannot recall when we have not been singing from the same song sheet, hence my surprise to read your comments in defence of Abbott's on this matter. Abbott shows little regard for anything or anyone in his way. He has made a series of gaffs and embarrassed many on numerous occasions at official functions and ridden rough shod over families like the McKinneys in pursuit of political advantage. For all we know he may have been solicitous and comforting to the family when he attended the funeral. He just does not appear to have any sense of occasion or regard for who he might offend when he makes comments in public.

jane

24/03/2013CU, I didn't think you were having a shot, it's not your style. And you're right, it's not what he did, bad as the was, as much as all the lies he tells about it. He's too gutless to own up, just like a kid lying so he won't get into trouble. And nothing's changed. WRT the Rodent, Gordon Bilney had it so right about him-a "lying, morally compromised and downright evil little turd..." I didn't know he'd done that to Crean, but it comes as no surprise. He was totally devoid of manners and class, an evil little turd that no amount of polishing could ever give any class.

TalkTurkey

24/03/2013Some interesting news about Cannabis in the CURING of cancer. Cannabinoids shown to KILL CANCER CELLS but LEAVE HEALTHY ONES! (Not happy about one company getting all the patents though!) http://hempembassy.net/forums/After-the-Facts/Medical-Cannabis/GW-Pharma-gets-US-Patent-for-all-Cannabinoid-Cancer-Treatment/8,3082.html It seems that there is virtually no condition in which cannabis use is not potentially efficacious. I know that sounds snake oily ... But In both glaucoma and Alzheimers it is the BEST KNOWN AGENT in arresting onset. Appetite stimulant in cancer cases. Analgesic where Morphine has ceased being effective - yet without a tolerance problem, i.e. you don't need increasing doses - and no addiction syndrome, and no possible overdose! Cannabis users are notoriously NOT obese. Both types of diabetes. Mental disorders, most exciting possibilities of all. I won't go on. I've said it too much in my life before, ever since the Dunstan years where I gave evidence to the SA Royal Commission into the non-Medical Use of Drugs whose positive findings were instantly buried. It'd be good if someone listened. It's not as though the information is unavailable. It's everywhere when you start looking. (But it's easier to be ignorant and prejuduced.) Anybody who thinks we live in a free country is not an otherwise-law-abiding Cannabis user. A completely non-other-affecting act should never have been a crime.

Jason

24/03/2013For those who don't like clicking on News Ltd Sites Why Kevin Rudd remains an outsider IN February last year, at the Willard Hotel in Washington, Kevin Rudd held two extraordinary press conferences, both of which tell of why he, an unceasing manipulator with a messiah complex, is so despised by his own party. They also revealed his poor political judgment. Rudd had been working the numbers and the media, relentlessly, since being overthrown by Julia Gillard in June 2010. Simon Crean, who would play such a strange self-destroying role in Thursday’s events, was sent forth at that time to publicly accuse Rudd of being disloyal to the party by trying to rally forces to overthrow Gillard. Rudd’s response, in Washington, was first to announce he was resigning as foreign minister because he no longer had the confidence of the Prime Minister. Gillard had in fact said nothing about Rudd and, indeed, it suited her to have him out of the country as much as possible. But according to a Labor insider, with a challenge from Rudd inevitable, Gillard’s team cleverly lured Rudd into going too early. “It was rope—a—dope,” says the insider. “All Rudd had to do was sit there until after the Queensland election (a month later, in March 2012, won by the Liberal National Party’s Campbell Newman) and everyone would have been pleading for him to come back. “That was brought on by Gillard’s people, particularly (Communications Minister Stephen) Conroy. Rudd was leaking to the media, so they started doing the same. And then a heap of them went out and poured scorn on him.” The first press conference was held at 1am Washington time, which was around 5.20pm Australian Eastern. Rudd’s idea was to maximise the confusion with a prime-time evening news hit. Rudd had gone public, overseas, in a massively disruptive act. The second presser came just before he got on a plane, where he said – without exactly saying it – that he was coming home to challenge the PM. Rudd needed to send a message to his colleagues because he had to catch a flight from Washington to Dallas, and then on to Brisbane, and would have many hours in the air where he could not work the numbers. It would not matter. The February 2012 leadership ballot saw Gillard wipe the floor with Rudd, winning 71 votes to 31. Rudd had seriously overestimated his influence, and assumed people would gravitate to him, and plead with him to put things right. Instead, all he had really done was damage Gillard and his party. It may not have occurred to him that he also damaged himself. The Gillard-Rudd caucus numbers of 2012 have not really changed up till Thursday’s non-event leadership spill, even though the vote, by most accounts, would have been closer had a ballot been held. There are about 30 people inside caucus who strongly like Rudd, another 35 who hate him, and the remaining 35 or so who are loyal, above all, to the idea of stability. Rudd was entitled to be aggrieved that the party panicked and dumped him in favour of Gillard after a series of poor polls in the lead up to the 2010 election. But it is Rudd’s behaviour since then that has seen him branded an insidious wrecker, who has never put the party’s interests ahead of his own. Rudd was believed to be behind the series of damaging, clinical leaks in 2010, as Labor prepared to fight a campaign under Gillard, that she opposed paid parental leave and pension rises, supposedly saying: “Old people don’t vote for us.” “The assumption,” says the insider, “was Rudd would go into the sunset, like Beazley and others did. Gillard was doing well in the polls and then went over a cliff after the Rudd forces leaked such hurtful material that undermined her completely. “It opened up doubts about Gillard, that she didn’t understand people’s lives, that she was not a mother, which had never been an issue when she was deputy PM. And she has never really recovered. “At the heart of the Gillard and Wayne Swan dislike of Rudd, is that he destroyed the party by those leaks, in the middle of a campaign. It was viewed as the ultimate betrayal. Gillard and Swan and (Stephen) Conroy will never forgive him.” Added to that, ministers such as Nicola Roxon, Tony Burke and others felt Rudd, who was authoritarian and non-consultative, had treated them like nobodies when he was PM. They didn’t want him back. Gillard has had 27 consecutive negative polls. The belief in caucus is that Rudd is in part to blame, because he has never stopped leaking to the media and has been, through his actions, Abbott’s greatest ally. Rudd and Swan fell out years ago, when both entered federal politics from Queensland. Both were ambitious and the understanding between them had always been that Swan would be the one to go for the top job. Rudd betrayed Swan when he rolled Kim Beazley. It would be Swan who gave the most visceral assessment of Rudd after his failed 2012 coup attempt, accusing him of sabotage and disloyalty. “The Labor Party is not about a person, it’s about a purpose,” said Swan in the aftermath. “That’s something Prime Minister Gillard has always known in her heart but something Kevin Rudd has never understood. “He was the Party's biggest beneficiary then its biggest critic; but never a loyal or selfless example of its values and objectives." The Labor insider says Gillard’s team were shocked how easily they sucker-punched Rudd into making the challenge in early 2012. “They didn’t think they’d be so successful as Kevin resigning and then running,” the insider says. “If he had been smart, he would have said he’d been undermined by the Prime Minister, resigned and gone to the backbench and waited.” The reality is that in 2012 a lot of people were tempted to go with Rudd, but the view was that Gillard had not been given a fair go. They were still 18 months out from an election, and didn’t need to repeat the panic they had shown in dumping Rudd. And once again, on Thursday, the temptation was there again. But with Rudd comes with too many bad memories. The result of Thursday’s events is that unless Abbott makes some fatal mistake, the Labor caucus has taken the bloodyminded decision to lose the election with Gillard rather than rewarding the toxic Rudd, who is still popular with the electorate and might have a faint chance. Such negative thinking must be avoided, says the insider. “The hope is that if Julia gets some clean air, it can get back to where it was last year, which is about 50—50 (in the polls),” he says, while adding that the plane wreck is inevitable. “At the core of all this, there is a total underestimation of Abbott. Gillard’s core supporters think, especially after the misogyny speech, she’s got Abbott’s number. They think now that Rudd’s gone away, she can get on with destroying Abbott. It’s f*#@ing stupid, to be honest.” Abbott doesn’t need to be popular to win. Gillard just needs to keep making mistakes. The campaign will now focus on Gillard as a fighter, as one of the toughest PM’s the country has ever had. “But the problem is people think Julia’s fighting for herself, and not for them,” says the insider. Having made a serious error in setting an election date too early, she has surrendered her incumbency and every new announcement will be seen through a prism of her trying to win people’s votes, not a leader putting her country first. The question will be what part Rudd will play in the coming months, whether he’ll shut up, whether he can ever accept that enough of his colleagues regard him as so unbearable that he can never again lead the country. Or whether he has enough hatred in him to continue his destabilisation and help Abbott to the lodge. “Rudd was entitled to be aggrieved by Gillard but Rudd has played the game as hard as anyone else,” says the insider. “Beazley walked away, and Beazley got taken care of (being appointed Ambassador to the US). “That’s why Kim Beazley’s regarded as an elder statesman of the party. Rudd’s viewed as a malcontent, and we don’t want him back. “Sitting in the backroom, playing the numbers, hoping you’ll be drafted is not going to work. He had to give people a reason for voting for him; he had to admit he made mistakes through 2008—2010. But that’s not Kevin.” Read more: http://www.news.com.au/national-news/paul-tooheys-piece/story-fncynjr2-1226604100630#ixzz2ONXCK1i7

Michael

24/03/2013Catching Up, hi. I apologise if you intended this and it's my glance at the qwerty keyboard that suggests it may actually have been a typo, but when you named Tony Abbott the "Leaser of the Opposition" in a post above...(March 23. 2013 02:16 PM) ...you nailed it. And him.

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24/03/2013AS Welcome to [i]The Political Sword[/i] family, and for your comment. Do come again. I've a lot of catching up to do reading comments after being away form my computer since yesterday afternoon.

bob macalba

24/03/2013Talk Turkey You might find this one interesting http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/24/fashion/more-older-americans-use-marijuana.html?hp&_r=0 come aboard folks the view is spectacular

bob macalba

24/03/2013Its a link from the same page with more info http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/m/marijuana/index.html cheers

2353

24/03/2013Casblanca wrote [quote]I take it that no male PM has ever had an affair/relationship with a fellow parliamentarian, or, if that were the case, it would not have elicited any condemnation or smutty comment from the Sir Ian's of this world. It’s never the fault of the married man is it? [/quote] The Annabel Crabb [i]Canberra Confidential[/i] which was on ABC1 last week would suggest that PMs have had affairs in the past. It's probably still on iView if you want to look. And to suggest it's never the married man's fault is ridiculous - it takes two to tango! Jason wrote [quote]Such negative thinking must be avoided, says the insider. [/quote] The scary thing about this statement is that apparently someone in the Government is still backgrounding the people that want to get rid of the Government. Are they that stupid or cna't the see the wood for the trees?

Ken

24/03/2013Have been catching up with all the comments and too many to respond to individually but I have enjoyed them. As may have said, I think the PM has come out of this "looking good". I can only hope that Rudd keeps to his statement that the main task is keeping Abbott out of office. I think Labor needs Rudd, not as a leader, not even as a Minister, but out on the hustings fighting for a Labor government because he is a good communicator. If he can honestly stick to his statement and support the PM to keep Abbott from the top job, it will help (particularly in shoring support in QLD). NSW still looks difficult but with the Obeid corruption now spreading into the National Party, it's more likely to lead to a public reaction of "a pox on both your houses". The QLD, NSW and Vic Liberal governments are a positive for Labor. While the argument goes that voters can separate State and Federal issues, it does have an influence, even if only 1-2%. And of course the leader of "Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition" has plenty of time to make more gaffes as he did at the apology on Thursday. In that regard, the Clayton's spill was another case of bad timing - it took away what should have been positive reporting of the PM's magnificent speech and the crass attempt by Abbott. If the journos now longer trust the old leakers, thee may be more space devoted to what the PM is actually saying.

Ken

24/03/2013correcting a typo last sentence of my comment should read "journos no longer trust" not "now longer trust". Sorry about that, chief!

Austin 3:16

24/03/2013[quote]He had to give people a reason for voting for him; he had to admit he made mistakes through 2008—2010. But that’s not Kevin. [/quote] At his last leadership tilt he admitted to mistakes and promised to be more inclusive etc next time around. Interesting article but it does end on a glaring factual error. Joe Hildebrand pretty much said it all about Labor recently, yet another glorious stuff up. I don't really care who Wayne Swayne is best buddies with, or who Simon Crean thinks is nasty or nice. I want Kevin Rudd to lead the Labor party as PM and that's a message the electorate has given pretty loudly and clearly every chance it gets. But "it's not big brother" said the PM. So as a voter why on earth should I listen to a party that doesn't bother listening to me ?

Catching up

24/03/2013Michael, typo, and probably can blame spell checker. Yes, is appropriate. The media spin sti9ll appears to be on. What a panel for Insiders at this time, this morning. Yes, there is a big support in the polls for Rudd. Is it not worrying to some, that the greatest support comes from the Coalition camp. One breakdown I have seen, is about 30% Gillard. 30% Rudd. 30% someone else. The same goes in reverse by the way for support for Turnbull, versus Abbott. I believe that FDerguson is overvalued and will not be missed. Listening to Pyne is sure entertaining. He has along with an overblown ego, an overblown imagination.

Ad astra

24/03/2013AS I agree with your contention that the basic values of Labor are laudable, even if some Labor people don’t always uphold them as they should. Jason Thank you for posting the Paul Toohey piece on Kevin Rudd. It makes very interesting reading. ken If Julia Gillard can get clear air, if the media give up on perpetually pushing the leadership issue, if Kevin Rudd really pulls behind the Government in campaigning, if the Ruddites finally give up on their sabotage, and if any continue, journalists give them the flick, the prospects of getting out Labor’s good messages will rise substantially. There are a lot of ‘ifs’ there, but strong recovery is possible. It really is a matter of whether the Labor team is prepared to all pull in the one direction.

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013Fed Up - [i] I believe that FDerguson is overvalued and will not be missed. [/i] Really? He is highly regarded as a bridge builder with the business community. Is it reasonable that there is at least one minister who retains the confidence of business? On the other hand, I’m sure you’ll agree that Crean, Bowen, Carr, even Rudd & Fitzgibbon, McClelland are talentless and not worthy of holding ministerial office. This government is a shambles - deeply divided, and has more talent on the backbench than on the front bench.

Catching up

24/03/2013I am amazed that Pyne is running the government down for taking members from the union movement, those straight out Uni, and political apparatus hacks. Pray, what is Pyne's background. Nearly straight out of Uni and a political hack. A man that Mr. Howard had no time for. Pyne is very good at knowing and saying what others should do. He goes further, he says what they will do. People make things up, says Pyne. Yes, Pyne indeed they do. I suspect you are a leading offender. A confidence motion on budget day. Wonder what business thinks of that. No confidence vote, budget day. Is that responsible action of an Opposition. At least Pyne now acknowledges an election cannot be held before July. Why not wait for a few short weeks longer, instead of sending the country into a constitutional crisis. One reason only. To avoid putting forwarded, fully costed policies. Policies costed by an independent source.

Catching up

24/03/2013"Casblanca wrote I take it that no male PM has ever had an affair/relationship with a fellow " It was fellow MP's that the PM committed her infamous crimes, which she will forever be condemned for, with. Yes, married, but I suspect separated. Some go further, including one here, that she broke the marriages up.

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013Catching Up – [i]” No confidence vote, budget day. Is that responsible action of an Opposition. 
[/i]” Once again Catching Up, you make it up. A motion can be tabled and cannot be dealt with on budget day. It may be dealt with during budget week. As always you just don’t deal with facts.

Catching up

24/03/2013Tom, is the next day any better?

42 long

24/03/2013The leadership thing should be over. The malcontents have to accept doscipline and shut TFU. Fitzgibbon is a moron. I don't mind people supporting whom ever they wish but he has the greaest motormouth I have seen on a Polly. They are helping the LOTO to inflict upon us a catastrophe that we shouldn't be required to experience to know it is there. ALL the signs are there. Join the dots work out where the support for the LieNP is from and who will exert influence on our society in the fufure , and what sort of society it will be as a result. Most of the world sees Australia as having the balance somewhere near correct. What country would most australians be prepared to go to live in in preferrence to here? The illusion of chaos is what the enemies of this government want to create. Whether there are leaks or not continuing, we will never know as the media will infer or even state that there are. Lack of thruth has never been a problem for the MSM. They went public in Canada defending the right to print KNOWN LIES in their organisations, without penalty. Why would any self respecting group propose such a course of action? BECAUSE they can fool the populace into believing just about anything. Abbott's method has no reality It's all about perception. He is master of deception. Effective as Opp'n leader?. Of course he is. He has so much power onside with him. Dracular could be made to look nice with the propaganda power he has and uses. Kohler this morning even adds to the impression when talking of the fiasco in Cypress with the gratuitous throw away line of comparing the plan as "worthy of the Labor Party". The IPA talking over everybody on the abc Reith and Vanstones even handed? commentary. Pyne was handed the longest opportunity to "rant" today that I have seen for a while. Cassiddy did have a go at the Budget being sidelined by a "lack of confidence motion". This is a trick they should not get away with. They (LieNP have got away with not responding to a budget too often, in the past. IF they have the credentials let them place them on view, not just ask us to accept them on the premise that "THEY are the best economic managers" just because (everyone knows they are) Their utterances in Parliament haven't shown a lot of evidence of it. Budgets are extremely importsnt. Considering a dismissal of the government at anywhere near the same time is a smokescreen. and diversion that must NOT be allowed to happen. Respect for proper process has never been in Abbott's bag of tricks.He should answer a lot of concerns many have about what exactly he will do in many areas. No smoke and mirrors.

bob macalba

24/03/2013This is what happens if you allow rotten Tory[bastards] run a country http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/21/do-people-get-osborne-even-thatcher its a world wide right whinge agenda, give them a shot at the top and the poor always pay

TalkTurkey

24/03/2013A GIFT! For Us ALL! Thank you davie ewan macdonald‏@escalatorover1h @muso1947 a gift for you @TalkyTurkey pic.twitter.com/TZafJDCiGZ Sorry folks not writing here quite so much, I'm out on the frontline with Twitter a lot.

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013Catching Up, I’m merely pointing out that you make up so much. You don’t even bother to correct your posts when you have clearly been shown to be incorrect. The budget week is fine, it is the ideal time for a parliament to indicate its confidence or otherwise in a government. What’s the problem with that? Meanwhile, you seem to think that’s it is ok to return a party to government that contains more talent and experience on the back benceh than in the ministry. You argue that this will provide the opportunity to promote some new people. On this basis you must have given up on any criticism of an incoming Abbott government on the basis of experience.

Ad astra

24/03/2013Folks [b]Warning – ignore the polls[/b] Already the pollsters are licking their lips in anticipation of even worse polls for PMJG and Labor, and Galaxy is out this morning, evoking “More bad news for Julia Gillard” headlines on Channel Seven’s Sunrise. If, within a day of the ‘leadership spill’, a pollster asks if last week’s events have caused damage, it is patently obvious that the majority of respondents will say ‘Yes’. Similarly, if you ask if she is now a ‘lame duck’ leader. If the TPP goes down, as one might expect, this will be advanced as evidence of the damage; if it stays the same, it will be interpreted as Labor having hit ‘rock bottom’. We can expect similar outcomes and comments from this week’s [i]Newspoll[/i]. So let’s not take notice of any polls in the time ahead. They will, as usual, be worthless as predictors of the September 14 result. Indeed the outcomes of the opinion polls will be predictable and the journalists’ take on them even more so. Journalists who have been badly embarrassed by the debunking of their repeated predictions of an imminent ‘Ruddstoration’, will want to take out their revenge on the one who advised them: “Don’t write crap – it can’t be that hard”. Still seething at her remark, they will redouble their attacks like the circling piranhas they are. The old saying: “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned” might have been better applied to egotistical journalists who, cocooned in their echo chamber, have always believed in their own omniscience. Don’t expect even the mildest [i]mea culpa[/i]; don’t expect any remission in their assault on the PM and Labor. In fact, bolstered by what is likely to be another set of poor opinion polls, they will go in even harder believing they can smell, and see, blood in the water. Their proprietors, long intent on the destruction of the Labor Government and this feisty PM who tells them “Don’t write crap”, will insist that their columnists go in even more fiercely, teeth bared, hungry for blood and flesh. Apart from their political agenda, proprietors will swell with satisfaction as sensational headlines attract more readers to their moribund papers, putting off for just a while their ultimate demise. [b]Don’t expect any easing up. Just sit back with a knowing smile, and watch the entirely predictable media assault. Don’t let it get to you. That’s what they want.[/b]

TalkTurkey

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 said, among other offensive things, [i]I want Kevin Rudd to lead the Labor party as PM and that's a message the electorate has given pretty loudly and clearly every chance it gets. But "it's not big brother" said the PM. So as a voter why on earth should I listen to a party that doesn't bother listening to me ? [/i] Yeah and why should we self-proclaimed Labor supporters GAF about you because you're completely disingenuous! Anybody who supports Rudd now is NO FRIEND to Labor. What's the diff between you and Cannabis? [i]No diff[/i], both just [i]plants[/i]!... Oh wait though ... [i]Lots[/i] of difference ... Cannabis can be helpful in many ways!

DMW

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 @ March 24. 2013 10:49 AM [i]I want Kevin Rudd to lead the Labor party as PM and that's a message the electorate has given pretty loudly and clearly every chance it gets. But "it's not big brother" said the PM. So as a voter why on earth should I listen to a party that doesn't bother listening to me ?[/i] The question that comes to my mind is: Have you actually communicated your desire [i]directly [/i] with your local federal member and/or your states' senators or have you left it to the opinion polls to do your talking? If you have expressed your opinion/desire to any of these people are you positive they did not 'listen'? Is it possible they listened, considered your opinion and after due consideration acted in different way. All of us, whether elctors or parliamenterians would be wise to consider the words of Edmund Burke whenever we offer our 'opinion'. [i]Your representative owes you, not his industry only, but his judgment; and he betrays, instead of serving you, if he sacrifices it to your opinion.’[/i] Edmund Burke, Speech to the Electors of Bristol http://goo.gl/2mnAw In fact an informed elector along with a wise representative would do the nation a great favour to read the whole speech and have it placed prominently near their communication devices to be read before we offered our 'opinion'.

Austin 3:16

24/03/2013[quote] Have you actually communicated your desire directly with your local federal member [/quote] What you mean Wayne Swan, well I got an invite to go to a BBQ with him just the other day so I suppose I could give him my opinion while I'm there. Think it will do much good ? As to Burke yep my elected member is entitled to pay no attention to what I say whatsoever. But as I asked before if he won't listen to me then why should I listen to him? That's the beauty of being a voter, our opinion only matters every three years or so, sure in the meantime Gillard can treat that opinion with her "big brother" contempt if she likes but sooner or later the electorate will get it's say.

Austin 3:16

24/03/2013[quote]Anybody who supports Rudd now is NO FRIEND to Labor. [/quote] I (and Fitzgibbon, Bowen, Carr a good chuck of caucus et al) would have a differing opinion.

Jason

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 Why do you want Rudd to be leader?

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013Ad Astra – [i]” Journalists who have been badly embarrassed by the debunking of their repeated predictions of an imminent ‘Ruddstoration’[/i] I’d like to know exactly which journalists [b]”predicted’[/b] Rudd returning. Plenty reported on the maneuvering by ALP ministers and MPs. Plenty said there was a move to Rudd, and numbers were gathering. But who said he was about to win? Ad Astra is another who ignores facts.

Ad astra

24/03/2013Folks [i]Insiders[/i] was a pretty bland affair today. Nothing unexpected emerged, except perhaps Christopher Pyne’s extraordinary statement that he had been tweeted, presumably by Rudd supporters, that Julia Gillard will be removed in 72 days! Why anyone would believe anything Pyne says is a mystery; I expect it is another of his grenade throwing performances. Why would any Labor politician tweet Pyne, let alone with such a message? If it were so, that would be high treason. I thought Barrie Cassidy was reasonable and not inclined to go along with some of Niki Savva’s or Gerard Henderson’s extravagant statements. He introduced the subject of the de-selection of Richard Torbay from New England after some connection with Eddie Obeid was uncovered, to see it brushed away with an imperious sweep of Henderson’s hand. Likewise, dear friend Gerard quickly excused Abbott’s unfortunate use of the term ‘birth parent’ in his ‘Forced Adoption’ speech. Folks, it is clear that Coalition media supporters, Tony’s mates, will go on excusing any misstep, any error of judgement he makes, which the Niki Savva’s of the Canberra Press Galley would use to flail Julia Gillard were she to do the same. Get used to it. It will go on unremittingly. The next few weeks will be fascinating. With parliament in recess now for seven weeks, Julia Gillard will appoint a new ministry, get on with governing, and will get a chance to display her achievements. The Coalition, eager to get airtime during the recess, will be hell bent on disrupting her, as will be her media adversaries. Let’s see who prevails.

DMW

24/03/2013Good Afternoon 2353, [:P on] [i]... to keep Abbott out of Kirribilli (You don't think he would live in Canberra do you! - sorry DMW!).[/i] With superfast broadband available across the length and breadth of the country would it matter, except for symbolism, where a PM chose to rest their weary head? For all the matter it stuffs they could just as easily live t'ohter side of The Black Stump and still lead the nation via the superfast intertubes. Oh, hang on, there is a fly in this ointment - superfast broadband - coming to a Black Stump Node somewhere near you umm, maybe next century. Oh well we can dream if we want. [:P off]

42 long

24/03/2013The relatively small number who have walked would be far less than what would have changed it Rudd had returned. Rudd's undermining has no excuse. He has been constantly prepared to inflict damage on his own party to achieve his Messianic dream of a return. He would destroy the party to gain that result the same as Abbott has damaged australia's reputation, ignored essential principles and procedures, proceeded with smear and trial by media and ultimately bury the budget and whatever else to lead what is left. How much damage has abbott done to business with the uncertainty he fosters?. The only certainty HE wants is the certainty of getting Julia out of the Lodge and look after the powerful group he represents who don't care about most of Australia, as long as THEIR power and fortunes are enhanced. What dribbles down is generally not edible or sustaining.

TalkTurkey

24/03/2013Ad you said [i]Still seething at her remark, they will redouble their attacks like the circling piranhas they are.[/i] I don't think Piranhas have the smarts to circle. Not like sharks that think things through. They just go straight in and attack mindlessly like a pack of journalists!

Bilko

24/03/2013Kevin Rudd is a serial leaker, way way back it was Rudd who exposed the group trying to get Kim Beasley re-elected LOTO they were nicknamed Roosters. Nothing much has changed, the roosters held high office during his Prime Ministership and still do today. Kevin was a micromanager and witnessing last week, is still at it manipulating people where he becomes the beneficiary. Regardless of others now on the scrap heap, mind you it is their own fault for putting their trust in him after the way he ran cabinet during his reign. Julia should get a clear run up to Sept and romp home, what on earth have the noalition to offer. I have a bet on her at odds of 6-1 which when I collect will provide a good night out.

TalkTurkey

24/03/2013Good on you Bilko fo putting money where your heart is. But it's also your brain eh, like mine, and Comrades, let me point out that if we were NOT to win, (as we shall though, DYWAT! ~ for reasons Bilko makes clear), well an itty bitty bet is going to be the [i]smallest[/i] of your regrets. But when we WIN! :) WHOOOO-HOOOOOOOO!

Catching up

24/03/2013It appears the first poll out, sees things very much the same. A slight increase in the Greens vote. Yes, the one they are concentrating on, is how the last few days affect Labor. One would have to answer yes, it has harmed the PM. What else could one expect. Yes, Tom, the Labor front bench is mainly made up of today's people. Unlike the Opposition shadow front bench. Is in not at least 14 mostly men from Howard's front bench of two elections ago. Many of them are approaching or passed retiring age. Yes, Labor has served nearly two terms. It has been a very productive government during that time. The PM will leave a legacy that she has much to be proud of. Yes, Mr Abbott will indeed ne a busy man dismantling what she has put in place. Tom, listen to the business show on ABC this morning. The NBNco is by far the cheapest way to go, over time. I am sure there is enough talent to replace the likes of Ferguson. The one that would be missed is Albanese. He has also stated from day one, he will never challenge a sitting PM. That is why he supported Rudd last time, as he did not like the way he was deposed. He also said at the time, that he would not vote against the PM if the matter arose again. No one is saying Rudd will be better. What they are saying the polls suggest he might do better that Gillard. I do hope it is private polling they are relying on. Polling that is aimed at Labor voters. It also came out in the latest poll, the majority does not want an election at this time. Maybe they are clever enough, not to want the political instability it would bring. Maybe they want to see Abbott's policies, along with independent costings before casting a vote. Yes, we wants more than slogans, that carry the rider, that there will be inquiries after the election, before deciding what is to be done. Everything is to be sent to the productivity commission or similar bodies. All Abbott is promising is studies, before he makes decisions. In other words, I will let you know after the elections.

Ad astra

24/03/2013Folks For anyone living under a rock, for anyone who doesn’t read, for anyone unaware of the repeated prediction by journalists that Kevin Rudd would replace Julia Gillard, read this: http://australiansforhonestpolitics.wordpress.com/2013/03/16/dead-woman-walking/ posted courtesy of Casablanca. It begins: “[i]The Finnigans has collated this incredibly long list of failed commentariat predictions since 2011. Let’s not forget that this is the product the media is selling to us as quality insider information with context. In the 24 hour news cycle you can say and publish whatever you want and you get rarely held to account for your work, shoddy as it may be…How come they never explain how or why they were wrong? If it finally happens they will say they were right, but won’t admit they helped make it so. If it doesn’t happen, they’ll try again. Accountability doesn’t happen for political journos, commentators, or their bosses. And if they have their way it never will.[/i]” It lists a running tally of what it calls [i]“81 Leadershit stories stories from 42 insider experts.”[/i] Read the headlines. Good reading for cave dwellers.

Ken

24/03/2013Can someone please enlighten me what these comments are about "roundheels". I understand the meaning of the term but is this being said about the PM? What have I missed? Is it being said that the PM was having liaisons with other MPs when she herself was just a humble MP? Please help!! I don't read the MSM - the closest I come is about a once a fortnight look at the Canberra Times and then usually only to read the lastest bad news about the Raiders!

Austin 3:16

24/03/2013Hi Jason, Interesting question, thanks. To be honest on one level there's a little bit of emotional pique - this is the guy I voted for as PM I'm still a proud owner of a Kevin 07 T. So on one level I'm a bit miffed that "my" PM got rolled without my say. Secondly he beat John Howard and lead the party to government after a fair stretch in opposition - as I see it the party "owed" him because of that he should have lead the party to the last election. I also thought his work as PM was pretty good, policy such as the NBN, e-health, ETS etc is good policy and his handling of the GFC was exemplary. He should have had the opportunity to run on that record. Lastly and more pragmatically I think he has the better chance of winning the next election. He seems to be a far better campaigner than the current PM. Compare his 2007 campaign with Gillard's 2010. Chalk and cheese, Rudd managed to trounce one of the more competent political performers this country has ever seen - a remarkable feat. Gillard managed to lose ground to Abbott. (which is in it's own way also a remarkable feat but not a commendable one) I would prefer Abbott to remain in opposition after the next election. Currently that appears less and less likely each passing week.

Catching up

24/03/2013Ken, they are trying to convey the message, that the PM is little more than a slut. Tom, and those who believe that Ferguson will be irreplaceable, can you name one thing of note that he has done or said during this term of government. His time seems to be spent, undermining his leader.

bob macalba

24/03/2013Ad......polls and trolls, both ignored Austin 3:16...what electorate are you talking about? which one wants rudd back? murdoch wants rudd back apart from that not too much going on for the old ruddster im happy to say, now its time for Kev to be a team player of which i think he will do, Labor are going to win the next election and our PM will be Julia Gillard, and what a PM she will continue on being, TT...agree but more of a nettle

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013Catching Up - it says plenty about the loyalty Gillard commands when so many of her own ministers sought to oust her as PM. So many experienced capable ministers just wanted her out. But that doesn’t seem to penetrate your consciousness.

Jason

24/03/2013Aa, Have a read of this http://ausvotes2013.com/2013/03/23/crean-rudd-and-wtf/

DMW

24/03/2013During the summer break I opined that at the end of the parliamentary session that has just ended we would have a very good idea on the chances for the re-election of a Labor government. Of course it is still a matter of opinion and judgement, Burkeian or otherwise. PM Gillard's time as number one among equals has been characterised by one thing at least. Ms Gillard has often taken the media, and us, by surprise, done the unexpected. In the words of some [i]she ain't played by the roolz[/i]. Is she planning to take us by surprise again? Will convention be thrown out the window with her next major announcement of major import to the nation? Before I opine ion a possible 'PM surprise' there is characteristic of Labor people that comes into play here. True Labor people are the 'best' haters in the world, they can carry a grudge from here to eternity and wait 'forever' to reek revenge. We have seen far too many examples of it over recent days. Even some commenters here have shown that same predilection for hatred and seeking revenge. So will PM Gillard seek retribution and revenge when she names her new cabinet or will she take the media by surprise, bury the hatchet beneath the ground instead of between the eyes of the vanquished. The time has come for the PM to move past day to day tactics and expose and work to a medium term strategy. Is she capable of that? The hope that we will see a move from tactics to strategy raises the the question of 'advice'. Will the PM expand her circle of 'trusted' advisors from the current three or four, two of whom, in my opinion, should be marched, to a more inclusive and representative team that could well 'bring home the bacon'? The announcement of the new ministry is opportunity for the PM to show true leadership and that she has the best interests of the nation as her guiding star. It is equally an opportunity for her to prove what many in the commentariat are saying that [i]her judgement is flawed[/i] Mark it down is the day that this government [i]do's or dies[/i]

jane

24/03/2013Catching Up, you're not the only one who has no time for Ferguson; that opinion has been expressed by a lot of people for some time. As for Prissy, a nasty, talentless, private school bully with a superiority complex. A waste of oxygen, along with that mob of Rodent has-beens on the shadow front bench. Ad astra @12.08pm, hear! hear! [quote]I want Kevin Rudd to lead the Labor party as PM and that's a message the electorate has given pretty loudly and clearly every chance it gets.[/quote] Sorry to contradict you Austin, but I don't want Kevin Rudd to lead the Labor Party and be installed as PM and the people who have to work with him don't want him back either. I would have thought that someone who is prepared to betray the party he wants to lead, not once, but many times, is not a fit person to lead it. And if you bothered to read the research, the majority of voters who want him reinstalled are Liars Party voters who won't be voting Labor. And as reminder, he also promised no more backgrounding and whiteanting. Kept that promise for.....20seconds? And has now hung his deluded supporters out to dry, just as he did Garrett. What guarantee for the country that he wouldn't hang us out to dry if things got a bit difficult? His feet are made of sand. Clay feet at least stay solid for a reasonable amount of time. Read Bilko's comment @12.54pm. You're backing a 3 time loser. DMW, but Lielaot doesn't want or need superfast broadband. In fact he's agin all that sciency stuff. He prefers carrier pigeons.

Bilko

24/03/2013TT Thank you for your kind comment, I would have put more on but current commitments prevented that. What on earth is the msm(still not worth capitals), going to print from now until Sept, the only thing is labor policies the others have none, mind you that could be a challenge for them to suss out. Leadership challenges unless on the opposition side, are dead, cremated and buried rather like that famous blue parrot. I for one am eager to see the new ministry line up, I do not expect any new policy directions but more drive in bringing them to the public's attention.

Ad astra

24/03/2013Jason Thanks for the ausvotes link - a great historical account we should bookmark.

NormanK

24/03/2013Ken The round heels reference was made by one of our resident malcontents. It is not out in the mainstream, as far as I know. Best left to go through to the keeper.

Jason

24/03/2013ToM "So many experienced capable ministers just wanted her out." Bullshit! if that was the case why isn't Rudd PM today?

Catching up

24/03/2013Jane, I believe the real question is, "do we want to be governed by polls". In other words, do we let the media moguls decide who is the PM of this country. I am sure that many would have found Rudd wanting this time. Many are voicing the truth, that when it comes to Rudd, it is all about Rudd, not what is good for the country. I firmly believe that Rudd is happy to see the PM lose. That it is a part of his plan. He will be resurrected after the election and lead Labor back to glory within three years. Those who support Rudd, have their own agenda. They are using Rudd, with the belief they have the power to control him. This in itself is puzzling, because the reason he was dumped, that he turned on his own people. He refused to listen. If this PM could not control him, how do others believe they can. Yes, the media has been reporting what Rudd and Co have been feeding him. The media, in my opinion should have looked deeper. They choose to feed the discontent from a few, who egos believe they can do better. The media have never questioned the actions of Rudd. Why not? Where would this PM be, if these same people got in behind the PM. I suggest, the malcontents could have been a part of sending Abbott off to what should be his demise. Maybe if some of them showed they could be trusted, they could have had some input into today's events. Did Ferguson and Co, take their concerns to the PM. I bet they did not. I do agree with Ferguson on one thing, Labor should never disown the Keating legacy. They should have embraced it. I also believe that Rudd should have cleaned out PS heads. I believe that he should not you have made so many Opposition appointments. He should have done something about the ABC. I believe this PM should also do so. As for creating class wars, that I am not in agreement with. Howard bought in so much upper class welfare, at the expense of the lower incomes. One cannot address the wrongs of the Howard years, without it being seen as class war.

Catching up

24/03/2013I believe that Abbott, Pyne and many in the Opposition hatred of this PM is so great, that this is the agenda that pushes them to support Rudd. The hatred is so great, they will not be happy with her being beaten, but also destroyed. There are many in the media that share that hatred. This PM has not fostered links within the media community. The PM has remained at arm's length at all times with the media. Cannot imagine her working the phones.

DMW

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 @ 01:41 PM [i]... he beat John Howard and lead the party to government[/i] The second part of that statement is true however, the first part is down to [i]victors get to write the history[/i]. Conventional wisdom has rewritten history to say that Kevin 07 single handed slayed the Howard monster. Reality is somewhat different. Howard [b]lost[/b] the election through, for wont of a better phrase, his [i]delusions of grandeur[/i]. There was a team of people without whom Rudd would not have had the opportunity to win and he was most capably supported by a more than able deputy. 2007 was another drover's dog election and just about any Labor member would have [i]lead the party to government[/i]. The elevation of Rudd as leader of the party should, in my then stated opinion, never of happened and, unfortunately, the party and my elected representative ignored my advice, and opinion, that it would only 'end in tears'. I had to accept that 'considered judgement' of the then members of caucus was 'in the best interests of the party and the country'. [i]I think he has the better chance of winning the next election.[/i] That is unprovable in so many ways and is [i]conventional wisdom [/i] only because it has been stated so many times by so many in the commentariat. The members of the parliamentary party have, by default, made the considered deliberations that it is in the best interests of the nation for Ms Gillard to lead the government to the election and the voters will get to make their choice then. Time will tell if it proves that it is in the best interests of the nation for Labor to lose office and if it is, it would more than likely happen no matter which of the choices between the two the party made.

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013I’d like to know, which journalists “predicted” the win by Rudd. That’s the statement made by Ad Astra. Not long ago, Bowen was spoken of as a future leader, now on the backbench. Ferguson – the only minister who maintains good business relationships – ditto Crean – former leader, the most experienced minister – ditto McClelland – ditto Carr – ditto …and so many more. There are so many, who just didn’t want Gillard. That says something about her inability to get her won party behind her. She’s no leader. She has always been inclined towards divisiveness, and that’s OK if you’re a hack. But it isn’t leadership.

42 long

24/03/2013Hawke was in with Murdoch through the Abeles connection and the co-owning of Ansett. Having Abeles on the reserve bank board should have been concerning. Perhaps control was exercised over Hawke by Murdoch then. ( As it was with Tony Blair in the UK). You can't ignore Murdoch. thats's the way he wants it.

Catching up

24/03/2013The Opposition was already running their Rudd lemon ad before the fat lady sung on Thursday. One could imagine what we would be getting now, if Rudd was successful. In fact I believe we would be facing an election. The independents I suspect would rather have one now, when Abbott cannot get control of the upper house. To wait the 72 days that Pyne comes up with, could mean that maybe Abbott could stretch the election to July, acting as PM. This would mean a lower house and half the senate election, keeping the houses in sync. Some can remember the power, that this scenario gave Fraser back in 1975.

Jason

24/03/2013I’d like to know, which journalists “predicted” the win by Rudd. That’s the statement made by Ad Astra. Take your pick! http://australiansforhonestpolitics.wordpress.com/2013/03/16/dead-woman-walking/

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013Jason, all those stories do is repeat the common sense line that Gillard is deeply unpopular and isn’t likely to remain Prime Minster for the long term. I’d say that’s pretty right and will occur via an election or her party. Who recently has been predicting that Rudd would win a caucus ballot, which is what Ad Astra said was the line of journalists? ------------ But my favourite line of Ad Astra’s is = “examine your values”…which apparently now aren’t endorsed by about 40% of the MPs of the party he is advocating we support.

Ad astra

24/03/2013Jason As I said yesterday, the views of some are so set in concrete that no amount of evidence will ever change them. Let's not waste time trying. Some people believe the world was created 6000 years ago, despite the mountain of irrefutable evidence that it is billions of years old.

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013[i]” no amount of evidence will ever change them”[/i] ...and just as a matter of interest, what exactly is the evidence that would change your view? You know that the ALP is virtuous and reflects “values”?

Gravel

24/03/2013Ad Astra The galaxy poll showed the same 2pp as the previous one, so nothing much has changed there. Like you, only on poll that counts, Sept 14th 2013.

42 long

24/03/2013A surprising number A a. I wonder how that makes Australian aborigines feel. I believe that If the Ruddstoration had been successfull we would have had an early election for two reasons. 1 Most of his adherents would have encouraged him to capitalise on the ( speculative, but possible) temporary increase in votes. 2 I don't believe the Independents would have continued to support the ALP They made their view apparent that the deal was with Gillard and everytime the Rudd possibility came up they restated their position. Note I don't believe that the LieNP feared Rudd. As stated the lemon 07 was already out and they had more on him with the passage of time. He has feet of clay and a lot of baggage. Going early for a perceived advantage is not a guaranteed gain position. The media could be relied to jump on it. Gillard has never been given the credit for the stability favouring position of nominating a fixed election day date. There was only a couple of possibles anyhow. Fixed term is a popular concept. If Abbotts view prevails they would all start campaigning for a four year campaign just because a fixed date is available. Funny logic that. Definition of BAD " Whatever Julia does".

jane

24/03/2013CU @2.24p, I certainly don't want the country run by poll results and I think in this PM we have another who constantly gives them her middle finger. I agree also wrt department heads and the ABC. The independence of both the ABC & the public service has been compromised by the corruption of the Rodentochracy. For those head in the sand Rudd supporters, apparently his support was overstated. He wasn't just short by 5 votes, more like 35. He started to lose my support when he hung Garrett out to dry, leaving him to the mercy of the Liars and their shills.

42 long

24/03/2013Jane I have made a similar comment as you have about the unforgiveable treatment of Garrett. Having urged the most rapid action he did not defend the minister from a most disturbing conclusion put forward by J Bishop who being a lawyer should have been aware of the outlandish nature of the accusation she made.

bob macalba

24/03/2013Facts, just dealing with facts, just so easy, anyhow this is how the PM deals with crap http://www.iviewtube.com/v/184496/devo-whip-it-%28official-music-video-classic%29 cheers

Jason

24/03/2013jane, Yes that was about the time I gave up on Rudd as well! But when he walked away from "the greatest moral challenge" of our time he was finished in my eyes just gutless. I know Gillard and others told him to drop it, but he was the leader and that's what he should've done acted like a leader! Perhaps if he done what his cheer squad forgets he and otherwise sensible MP's wouldn't be sitting on the back bench with their careers in ruins. He "dogged" them them the other day and proved he is still the same man they got rid of in 2010.

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013…and another point to Ad Astra. You’re the one running a blog, which falsely says it, puts commentators and politicians to the verbal sword - feigning some impartiality or independence. That’s crap. This site only exists to applaud every action by Gilard and her barrackers. You implore your followers to examine their values, as if the ALP has values beyond avaricious lust for the trappings of office. You implore your followers to ignore any challenge; I’d imagine they’ll drink the red cordial too.

KHTAGH

24/03/2013Oh what a week we have had, & what great analysis we have had on TPS. I do think that we could be looking at some very intelligent planning by the PM. Was the early election call a part of a larger plan with 2 aims. 1/ setting Abbott up for the chance of showing him up for what he is a flake on policy issues, people will get sick of him waving around his blue version of 'mein kampf'. 2/ Flushing out the Judas's in Labors ranks. I personally think that what has been driving the Anti Julia rhetoric that we have seen non stop for 2 yrs now comes down to one basic fact. We have never been in a political situation in Australia where a sitting PH has been able to divide a large proportion of the electorate on gender lines. Most women see through Abbott as the fake he is, they read body language like most men only dream of, he oozes insincerity like no-one else, his fake smiles are cringe worthy most women can't stand him. This scares the crap out of the Lieberal party & is the major reason their media slaves have been hell bent on destroying the PM anyway they can. They are unable to play fair & if they see the chance to have an unfair advantage they will take it every time. They know they have Rudd over a barrel & hence try to have him reinstalled to negate the advantage Julia has with pulling the women voters. I think 4 factors will decide the next election 1 women 2 young voters 3 the NBN & 4 climate change 3&4 being the most important to #2. After May when the Ashby appeal has be denied shit is going to hit the Abbott fan & he knows it, that's why he is constantly calling for an election NOW, he can see the coming storm clouds on his horizons he can see what is likely to happen. His vote of no confidence is his last throw of the dice. He is shit scared, several times in QT last week he had the look of a very worried man, I think for good reason. to quote him 'she just wont lay down & die' This is naturally just like the current MSM reporting, only an opinion!.

Austin 3:16

24/03/2013Hey bob macalba, I believe there is some evidence to suggest that the majority of the voting public would prefer Rudd as leader to Gillard. Hey DMW, Perhaps, John Howard might have beaten himself we'll never know. But still Rudd's performance on that campaign was exemplary, not a foot wrong. No mention of the "real Kevin" etc. Whereas Gillard finished in a weaker position than when she started. You also seem to be suggesting that the leader of the party has no bearing on the result of an election. (unless I'm wildly misinterpreting you - if so sorry). I see things differently. Hey Jane, I don't see how you're contradicting me after all I never claimed EVERYBODY wanted him back - or indeed that you wanted him back. And as I said before I don't care who Wayne Swan is buddies with or who Simon Crean thinks is naughty or nice. I've seen a few election campaigns in my time and I've never ever seen anybody campaign on the proviso that "Swannie thinks I'm a really nice person" mainly because it's irrelevant. [quote]Jane, I believe the real question is, "do we want to be governed by polls". [/quote] Wouldn't that be a terrible thing for a democracy. NEWS FLASH we are governed by polls, there's a big one every three years or so.

Algernon

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 @ 01:41 PM. Sorry to disappoint you but it was the people of Bennelong that got rid of John Howard not Kevin Rudd. KR managed to defeat a government led by Howard. John Howard was living on borrowed time in his electorate and if good fortune on his behalf had not intervened he would have been removed at either 2001 or 2004. He looked on track to lose it the first time but for 9/11 and then in 2004 had it not been for that Oaf Wilkie standing as a Greens candidate forcing Labor to run dead. Howard was my Local member (if you could call him that from 1991 till we turfed him out in 2007. By then the local press had had a gut full of him regularly running a list of firsts that he managed in his last 4 months. Outside Bennelong however no one could see it coming. I went to a friends (influential in the Liberal party) significant birthday on the Gold coast where I told the bottom feeders of the local branches that Howard was gone in his seat. They scoffed what would I know, there's no evidence. The bottom feeders tending to be the sad stupid and lonely. Any suggestion that Howard had anything to do with Howard's demise in his own seat is pure piffle. As for Rudd winning the election in 2007, well yes but Cuddly Kimmie or Simon Crean could have won that election. As for Rudd, he lost me when he didn't go to a double dissolution over the ETS.

Bilko

24/03/2013Jane, Jason & 42long I have been hammering the treatment of Garrett since the day it happened. It and two other events were my 3 strikes and you are out lament at the time.I trust we are not alone in that view.

Jason

24/03/2013Bilko, I hear ya brother!

Catching up

24/03/2013Some facts, as I see them. Mr Abbott is terrified to go to an election on September the 14th. He knows the trap that the trap the PM has set, will spring shut. The longer things go as they are now, the more costed and detailed policies Abbott has to release. When the likes of Bolt start to put pressure, on, one wonders how much longer can he get away with slogans and daily stunts. Screaming debt and deficits cannot last forever,especially as such outcries are not based on facts. Each day, we are beginning to see the media, point out how well the economy is travelling. Even heard a good defence of the NBNCo today by their head. Abbott seems to have decided he needs an election immediately, even if in the long run is not in his interest. One can only be held for the lower house before July. That would lead to electoral instability for many years. Would lengthen the time before Abbott had any chance of doing his demolition work. Not too sure what business will think of the uncertainty he will create. Not too sure that many businesses really want his Direct Action over the present CEF we now have. Some are already beginning to speak out. I believe that Abbott is terrified of an election being held on the 14th. Abbott would also love to be in the PM's chair leading up to an election. Who would not. The PM will have many options and choices in the next six weeks. I suspect if she believed there was a chance of a no confidence vote getting up, she will call an election early. Before July. Why make things early for him, when he creates the scenario. I suspect that the cross benches would also be of like minds, particularly the Greens. The Greens will want to hold onto their power in the Upper House as long as possible. She would do this, to ensure she goes to the elections in the PM's chair, not Opposition Leader. The PM would also have the option, if she came to the view, someone else might do better, of touching them on the shoulder, and having a new face as PM. Abbott, if he keeps to what he is saying, is setting out deliberately. Do not know if there are any Constitutional aspects of this action. I am far from a Constitutional expert. Maybe there is one out there that could explain some of the consequences of movers being made by Abbott. If Abbott is relying on the advice of Bishop and Brandis as experts, I suspect the PM would not have much to fear. The next few weeks will be like a great game of chess. From what I have seen of Abbott, he would be lousy at poker, as he broadcasts all his moves. Suspect chess will be beyond him. Would not like to play poker with the PM. As PM, she has appeared to be many moves ahead. A good talent for chess, I believe. Abbott to me is an opportunist and reacts to events. Never seen any long term moves from him. Appears to have an inability to change his strategy mid game. Could be wrong.

Ken

24/03/2013NormanK thank you for the explanation that the "roundheels stuff was only from a "local" troll. Catching up Any election before July would have to be for the House only, throwing House and Senate elections out of synch. It has happened before but not, I think, since the 60s (just a recall off the top of my head - may be wrong). It leads to additional elections which puts the voters right off side. The "no confidence" motion could be interesting. I noted that after the vote on Thursday to suspend standing orders to allow such a motion, Abbott was going on about the people who voted for the suspension (icluding Windsor and Oakeshott) had lost confidence in the government. But Windsor made it clear that he had challenged Abbott previously to "test the waters" with such a motion. So I am confident that Windsor and Oakeshott when Parliament resumes will vote to allow the no confidence motion but then vote against it. As others have suggested, however, such a motion will detract from any good news in the Budget.

orangefox

24/03/2013Wanted to share this clever animation from Ronald Ostrowsky http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIyt1swjhNA Came across it on kateahearne wordpress blog. I think you will enjoy it.

Catching up

24/03/2013Windsor has long said, one does have the right to move motions and being heard. That is a long way from s supporting a no confidence motion. I suspect if there was a chance of going to an early election, the cross benches would rather see the PM in control, not Abbott. Much is due to occur in the next six weeks. I believe most of the court cases are coming to fruition, or at least being heard. It will be interesting what role the media decide to play. Will they continue as they have up to now, or will they make some effort of holding Abbott to account. I have no problem with them doing the same to Labor, as long as they keep to the truth. I still believe that Abbott will crumble under the pressure of having to answer any questions. Tomorrow might shine some light of what is to come. I expect this PM will hit the ground running with her new ministry. OI agree with Latham, the PM needs to find some role for Rudd, to keep him occupied. She needs to get some control over his actions. For any Labor MP, that might stumble across these sites, I say get behind the PM, and give it all you have got. If you did replace the PM with Rudd, I suspect many on this site would have walked. Yes, many might want Rudd. Are you so sure, that number equals those who believe the only answer is PM Gillard.

Austin 3:16

24/03/2013Hey Algernon, Darnit I can't find my magnifying glass at all so I'll have to skip the bit where I try to split hairs as finely as you. Kevin Rudd was opposition leader before the election in 2007, John Howard was PM. After the election Rudd was PM and Howard gone-ski. Hmm those scoffing bottom feeders - can't seen any parallels there to the current situation can you ?

Austin 3:16

24/03/2013ps [quote]As for Rudd, he lost me when he didn't go to a double dissolution over the ETS.[/quote] So when he didn't sulk and pick up his bat & ball and storm of the field that's when he lost you. Wow. What a criteria I want a PM who chucks a hissy fit and calls an election when things don't go his way.

Jason

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 Are you just starting to learn the trade of a troll? So far you're doing you "brothers" a disservice come back when you've worked it out!

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013[i]”Could be wrong.”[/i] Finally there’s something we agree on.

Jason

24/03/2013"Wow. What a criteria I want a PM who chucks a hissy fit and calls an election when things don't go his way." Yet Abbott has already stated should he win office and Labor and the Greens block him in the senate over the "carbon tax" He will do just that!

ian

24/03/2013There is this fable being pushed. Martin Ferguson was a good Minister. Crap!!! It seems to me that being involved with leaking, backgrounding and destabilising a Prime Minister dedicated to legislating a carbon price and profits tax. Schemes that effect the very forces he, on behalf of the Australian people, was charged with overseeing. That is not conduct becoming a Minister of the Crown. I fervently hope that on vacating his office he is denied the use of a shredder.

Jason

24/03/2013ian, looking at the body language of both Bowen and Ferguson they looked like the never had their hearts in it anyway! I don't care what their personal view of a policy is, It's their job to go out and sell the policy! if they can't do it resign and go to the private sector.

bob macalba

24/03/2013Hey Austin 3:16.........'Howdy' anyway my move..i believe theres no evidence that says most of the electorate would prefer Kev over PM Julia Gillard....your turn now, oh and if you could throw in a realistic piece of proof that would be excellent, until then the comments and links provided by fair dinkum folk here will do me fine, gotta warn you though the msm have been trying to piss in my ear for a while now and they aint got nowhere, so good luck

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013[i]” That is not conduct becoming a Minister of the Crown.[/i]’ It’s amazing the number of ALP luminaries that are now despised. • Gillard couldn’t retain the confidence of her ministry says plenty about Gillard • Ad Astra would have everyone vote for a party that contains such a huge number of MPs that ALP supporters loathe Hilarious

jane

24/03/201342 long @4.29pm, yes. Bishop, J allowed to get away with that disgusting slander of Garrett and nary a word out of Rudd, or anyone else, if I remember correctly. And then to be demoted by the gutless Rudd thus handing the Liars and their appalling hangers on a carcass to savage. The near destruction of Peter Garrett has been Rudd's most egregious act, imo. And here we measure the calibre of both men-Rudd spiteful and vengeful, has spent the last 3 years backgrounding and whiteanting the woman who replaced him, despite being handed the Ministry he coveted. Garrett, with every bit as much reason to feel bitter and vengeful, sucked it up and kept doing a sterling job for the government. Rudd could have chosen to do a Garrett and still be Foreign Minister. He chose the destructive path. Jason @4.40pm, that is Rudd's big problem-he's not a leader. Doesn't seem able to think on his feet or stare the doubters down, unlike Gillard. The only time I think he showed what he could be was during utegate & the Grech affair demolishing Turnbull. And I doubt that Rudd would have withstood the battering from the msm that Gillard has sailed through. KHTAGH @4.45pm, what a week, indeed. Hopefully with the msm wearing a substantial amount of egg on their faces, they may not be so keen to take leaks and backgrounding at face value. Who knows, they may suddenly remember how good journos actually operate. Algernon @5.30p, agree 100%. Bilko @5.37pm, snap! Austin, I believe I cancelled your vote to reinstate the treacherous Rudd. And as the push for Rudd is shown to come predominantly from Liars voters, it's not worth a toss. Liars voters won't vote for a Rudd-led Labor, any more than Labor will vote for a Turnbull-led Liars Party. God knows why Turnbull is now regarded as a good bet after utegate and the Grech affair. And now we've got him trying to trash NBN. Wanker!!!!!!

bob macalba

24/03/2013The only thing i personally loathe are Tory[bastards] and all who worship them, probably throw in detest and hate as well, cant help it , its in my DNA and proud of it VENCEREMOS

Jason

24/03/2013ToM, A ministry that has and will have 23 members again! I thought you had an economics degree? when did losing 3 members add up to losing the "confidence" of the ministry!

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013Crean, Bowen Carr, Ferguson = 4. Then add Rudd, Albanese, McClelland... Gillard is regarded as a dud by the most experienced and capable ministers. But Ad Astra thinks we should look at their values!!

Tom of Melbourne

24/03/2013[i]” And now we've got him trying to trash NBN.[/i] He doesn’t have to bother. It is well behind schedule, with lower take up rates than forecast, and higher costs!! Conroy is trashing it on his own!

Jason

24/03/2013ToM, So capable were Crean and Ferguson that in all their years from shop stewards to ACTU presidents and all the battles they had to fight to get there. Rudd comes along and shows the world they should've retired at the last election their instinc has deserted them.

Catching up

24/03/2013Maybe those ministers and other parliamentary officers, that have spent the last two and half years undermining the PM, should spend some time in reflection. It was the ability of this PM, after Mr Rudd's attempt at sabotaging the election campaign, that manage to cobble a minority government to together, and has kept in in place up to now, where it has nearly served its full term. In that time, the PM has put in place most of what she promised. What they are trying to purloin, is the government that this brave gutsy woman has managed to create. The PM has achieved what she has, in spite of them all. It must be lovely to have ministers that one knows they cannot trust. Yes, Ferguson should have been a big part of the MRRT negotiations. It does not take much imagination to know why he was not. I wonder who was the biggest leaker from the cabinet, that must have led to the PM keeping more of her chest, than she would have ever wanted to. Yes, this PM has managed to govern, while dealing with all the rubbish that swirled about her. The PM's biggest problem has not been Abbott, but ministers within her own ministry, that did not have the guts to play fair. Is there any evidence that they did not try to fix, what they seen as wrong, within the government. Yes, some seem to lay the blame at the PM's feet. Yes, it is also true, one can ask, why did these people believe they had the right to knife the PM at every turn. If they cannot work within the rules and respect the decisions of the majority, it is time for them to depart. I am sure if the PM was as bad, as they say, there would have been a move to remove her, as happened with Rudd. It is not the PM that has broken the rules.

Algernon

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 All politics is local, electorates elect their members, members elect their leader. If you thing Ruddy the dragon slayer removed him from Bennelong then your rudely mistaken. Howard was openly hated in Bennelong in the end. All Rudd did was to lead a party that tossed the other party out. The drovers dog could have done that, Howard was finished in his electorate and his party the same. Now when you call something the greatest moral challenge in your lifetime then you'd expect you might just act on it. Blocked twice by the senate, the Greens in all their purity, he should have gone to a double dissolution, he'd have won in a land slide, however all of a sudden the moral challenge evaporates. Last Thursday, a formal apology to those of Forced Adoptions, mightn't mean much to you, It did to many. What does the little prick do but force a spill then not stand, how many of his colleagues did he hang out to dry, what a gutless, weak minded little man he is. Disgusting little creature.

Jason

24/03/2013Algernon Welcome to the TPS! Far be it for me to give you advice as I'm one of the main offenders that responds to our collection of "Trolls",much to Ad astra's frustration However their points are repetitive no matter the facts/links you put up to support your argument, if they can find a hair to split they will. But don't let them put you off from posting here!

Bilko

24/03/2013There is a perception going around that whenever a policy is announced the credit goes to the PM of the day rather than it being a team effort by the cabinet or heaven forbid the actual minister whose department the policy applies to. Take the NBN for instance, stories of Stephen Conroy rushing to catch the VIP plane just to put the original policy to KR on more than one occasion comes to mind and I am sure there are other Ministers with similar experiences. The one confirmed policy that had the Indies settle on a coalition with Labor rather than Abbott who incidentally could not negotiate himself around a paper bag. His hubris of keeping the Indies waiting for some considerable time expecting them to come to him on bended knees clearly indicates a man unfit for the highest office in the Land. Like Ian Elder says I firmly believe Abbott will NEVER be Prime Minister and his Clayton's apology last Thursday just confirms it.

Jason

24/03/2013Antony Green‏@AntonyGreenABC14h Let's be clear, there cannot be a half senate election until 3 August whatever happens in the Prliament #auspol

Ad astra

24/03/2013Algernon Welcome to [i]The Political Sword[/i] family and thank you for your thoughtful comment. Do come again.

TalkTurkey

24/03/2013GO the GUARDIAN! http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/21/australians-julia-gillard

jane

24/03/2013Austin 3:16 @7.40pm, I'd call someone who has been whiteanting and backgrounding the government of which he is a member for 3 years because he didn't get his way, a sulky treacherous bastard. Compare Rudd to Peter Garrett, who he hung out to dry for the Liars and their shills to maul and subsequently demoted him. Did Garrett start whiteanting and backgrounding? No he did not. He sucked it up and kept working. Rudd chose not to have a spill after he was tapped on the shoulder, no doubt because he knew he didn't have the numbers, but he was handed Foreign Affairs, a portfolio he was keen to have. Did he suck it up and do his best for the government? No he did not. Like a spoiled child he ran behind the government's back and whinged to the msm. He actively worked to ensure electoral defeat for the government to satisfy his ego. That is not the hallmark of a true leader or a good PM. He has proved yet again that he is not to be trusted and given the chance he will whiteant and background again. If you want someone like that for PM, I suggest you vote for Liealot. CU & Jason, Ferguson verballing Albanese is crap. He voted for Rudd last year because there had not been a vote in 2009, but he has stated categorically that he would not vote against a sitting PM and frankly, I take Albanese's word over whiteanter Ferguson. Just another example of Rudd inspired whiteanting. Disappointingly for ToM, as of 20 minutes ago Albanese has not resigned, nor does he intend to. He has the support of the PM and frankly if he had intended to vote for Rudd, he would have told her so. He doesn't sneak around plotting in corners. He got wind of the plotters' intentions and went to Rudd's office to find out if he intended to cause a spill. Rudd told him he would not.

lyn

25/03/2013Today’ Links On announcing one is planning to announce a policy: Abbott by @mansillo A story about announcing you are planning to announce a policy requires no substance at all http://mansillo.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/on-announcing-one-is-planning-to-announce-a-policy-abbott/ Australia’s new dawn? by @ngungun messy as they were, have opened the door for Julia Gillard to convert the ALP into a new & modernised political party http://www.independentaustralia.net/2013/politics/australias-new-dawn/ can the ALP reconcile itself? by Gary Sauer-Thompson Gillard is now more in charge of her government than at any point since 2010 http://www.sauer-thompson.com/archives/opinion/2013/03/can-the-alp-rec.php#more A Frank Statement or Two by rossleighbrisbane, @MigloMT fact is that CO2 is a natural occurring gas and is actually good for trees. All scientists know this http://theaimn.com/2013/03/24/a-frank-statement-or-two/ How what's hurting most is also what saved us by @1RossGittins small businesses - view the economy from their own circumstances out: If I'm doing it tough, the economy must be stuffed http://www.rossgittins.com/2013/03/how-whats-hurting-most-is-also-what.html Week in Review by @JohnCookAdviser Government’s leadership crisis There has been speculation for months that Kevin Rudd has been building support in the caucus http://johncookadviser.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/week-in-review-27/ Cross Benchers – What Do You Think? by WhitWords Tony Abbott and the commentators who assumed the, so called conservatives in Windsor and Oakeshott would deliver the keys to The Lodge http://whiticisms.net/2013/03/24/cross-benchers-what-do-you-think/ Why many believe Tony Abbott should not be Prime Minister by Critical Thinking apology on forced adoptions is a prime example of how he is incapable of understanding the experiences of Australians http://saynototony.wordpress.com/ Questions for Mr Abbott – Climate Change by @dudethinking I have not heard serious questions put to you by the Media in a long time. http://dudethinking.wordpress.com/2013/03/23/questions-for-mr-abbott-climate-change/ Help me please, I do want to vote Labor, give me a reason! by @YaThinkN the Labor party needs to be supported as what Tony Abbott plans for this country, does not bear thinking about http://yathink.com.au/article-display/help-me-please-i-do-want-to-vote-labor-give-me-a-reason,60 Re ALP casualties Townsville Blog I doubt very much that the Gillard government will suffer because of the loss of the likes of Chris Bowen and Martin Ferguson http://townsvilleblog.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/re-alp-casualties Step into the past to build our future by @wrb330 Industrial Hemp, NOT recreational Cannabis, and there really is a difference, a big one. Hemp was a mainstay of textile industries for a long, long time. http://wrb330.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/step-into-the-past-to-build-our-future/ Turnbull Suggests Eighteen Billion Dollars Is Not Material by @mwyres 51 billion is more than the current NBN is slated to cost. Who is being frivolous with the costs now Malcolm? http://michaelwyres.com/2013/03/turnbull-suggests-eighteen-billion-dollars-is-not-material/ FRASER CALLS ON TORBAY TO COME CLEAN by Andrew Fraser “He uses the paltry excuse that politics is “hard on his family” http://coffsoutlook.com/fraser-calls-on-torbay-to-come-clean/ LNP – MPs, but what does “MP” stand for- by Truth Seeker, LNP – MPs, but what does “MP” stand for? With the high drama/farce of the last week http://truthseekersmusings.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/lnp-mps-but-what-does-mp-stand-for/ The media and the government should scrutinise Abbott's plan by @mattdasilva it efficiently ignores the GFC completely, concentrating on promises to reduce government spending & creating one million new jobs http://happyantipodean.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/the-media-and-government-should.html There may be achievements, but voters still aren't getting Labor's message by Judith Ireland But is the Gillard government really the ''incompetent''? Despite the drama, the Parliament under Gillard has passed 485 bills since the end of 2010 http://www.theguardian.com.au/story/1384405/there-may-be-achievements-but-voters-still-arent-getting-labors-message/?cs=8 Transcript- Bolt Report, Sunday, March 24 Video Tony Abbott's interview on The Bolt Report on Sunday 24 March, 2013. http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/watch-meet-the-press-episode-5-sunday-march-24/story-e6frg12c-1226604439171 Today’s front Pages Australia Newspaper Front Pages for 25 March 2013 http://www.frontpagestoday.co.uk/index.cfm?PaperCountry=Australia

TalkTurkey

25/03/2013Lynnie you precious pearl Up at ???4AM? just for everybody else! When we win on September 14 you will be KNOWN to be a great hero(ine) of the Labor Movement. You already are but it will all feel worthwhile on the 15th. There is no-one in the whole Fighting 5th Estate who holds a candle to the esteem and yes Love we feel for you. You and Ad astra - What a double act! No thanks are ever enough for the MANY THOUSANDS OF HOURS you have given to us True Believers. And your influence is a game changer for the whole political fight, and a personal inspiration to this Turkey. * This isn't John Lennon's prettiest song but it is one of his most heartfelt and I love the thought the title encapsulates. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njG7p6CSbCU

Ad astra

25/03/2013LYN'S DAILY LINKS updated: http://www.thepoliticalsword.com/page/LYNS-DAILY-LINKS.aspx

Gravel

25/03/2013Looking forward to the new Cabinet line-up, I hope Albo retains Leader of the House, he does a great job there.

Tom of Melboune

25/03/2013Yeah! Albo is great, that’s why he would prefer Rudd as PM. When was the last time 4 ministers resigned because they didn’t support their leader? I’m sure Gillard won’t miss her most experienced, capable ministers… not with the C Team available. This government is coming apart at the seams, it is dysfunctional, and it is all of their own making! As Ad Astra said – • [b] Examine your values • How do voters decide on where to cast their vote? For some it is automatic, even unthinking. They have voted this way before, maybe always. They are the rusted-on voters[/b] So what are the values exhibited by the ALP? Is Ad Astra advocating support for them because he’s “rusted on”? The evidence proves this.

nasking

25/03/2013 LAST NIGHT'S STORM HERE IN LOGAN WAS TERRIFYING...THE NIGHT SKY WAS ABLAZE WITH MANIC, ZIG-ZAGGING LIGHTNING BOLTS, FIERCE STRIKES ACCOMPANIED BY ALMOST EAR DRUM SHATTERING BOOMS...AND A MONSTROUS AND INSANE ROAR HERALDED THE ARRIVAL OF FEROCIOUS WINDS THAT GAVE THE IMPRESSION WE WERE IN THE MIDST OF HELLCLONE. IF THIS IS THE EARLY STAGES OF CLIMATE CHANGE...I FEAR FOR HUMANITY...AND ALL THOSE SPECIES WHO DEPEND ON US. WE NEED TO TAKE URGENT ACTION NOW...IF NOT FOR US, FOR I IMAGINE WE CANNOT PREVENT AN ESCALATION OF DISASTERS OVER THE NEXT FEW DECADES DUE TO THE NEGLECT AND LACK OF FORESIGHT, IF NOT SHEER BASTARDRY OF OUR CORPORATE AND POLITICAL LEADERS OVER THE PAST FORTY YEARS, BUT AT LEAST FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS WHO DESERVE FAR MORE THAN THE ENVIRONMENTAL LUNACY AND CATASTROPHE WE ARE LEAVING THEM. N'

jane

25/03/2013Gravel @8.37am, can't see why not. Albo is one of those rare creatures who says what he means & means what he says. He voted for Rudd in the 2012 spill because Rudd didn't call for a spill in 2009. Had there been a spill in 2009, Albanese would have voted for Rudd as the sitting PM. However, he has made it clear that he would never vote against a sitting PM. I believe that he is/was friends with Rudd, but would not resile from his word. I also believe that he is not one of the backgrounders. There are some who wistfully hope that he was a Rudd supporter who actively undermined the government. They are mistaken in that belief. There may also be others who support Rudd, but draw the line at backgrounding, whiteanting and treachery. Now that the party has sent the deadwood to the back benches, they can get on with the job of governing without having to worry about rats.

nasking

25/03/2013 I CONDEMN ANY POLITICAL PARTY AND INDEPENDENT THAT CAPITULATES TO THE BULLYING DEMANDS OF A MEDIA THAT PUTS ITS OWN SURVIVAL AND GREED BEFORE THE NEED TO ADDRESS THIS GREATEST OF THREATS...CLIMATE CHANGE. THE NBN IS AN ESSENTIAL FORM OF COMMUNICATION NECESSARY TO DEAL WITH THIS UNFOLDING DISASTER...BUT SADLY, I FEAR UNLESS THE CANCEROUS MESSAGE MACHINE WE HAVE AT PRESENT IS NOT OPERATED ON, NOT ONLY WILL WE SEE FURTHER DELAYS IN THE NBN ROLLOUT...BUT ITS POSSIBLE DESTRUCTION...AND A FURTHER DIMINISHING OF CLEANER ENERGY PRIORITIES...AS THE USUAL SUSPECTS ON BOTH SIDE OF POLITICS KEEP US ON THE BROKEN PATH...BATTLING US INTO AN ENERGY STANDSTILL THAT SERVED US SO BADLY DURING THE 80s, 90s AND EARLY 2000s. WELCOME TO THE MURDOCHRACY WHERE CONFLICT AND DIVISION IS PREFERRED OVER RATIONAL PROBLEM SOLVING. N'

Tom of Melboune

25/03/2013More hilarity!! There were many here who reflected that Crean had brought this to a head in a most self sacrificing way. He’d acted honourably to silence the backgrounders. Now we know that he was acting because he specifically sought to roll Gillard and Swan! Crean knew that Gillard was loathed by the electorate (and for good reason), he knew that Swan is legitimately regarded as a blithering idiot. Crean wanted a change, in order to give the ALP an electoral chance, but he acted without Rudd’s endorsement. http://www.news.com.au/national-news/kevin-rudd-sent-me-text-but-i-missed-it-says-simon-crean/story-fncynjr2-1226605153494 Go Labor!

Casablanca

25/03/2013The Chief Sloganeer has declared that the PM will now have a front bench of L-Platers. In that case, he has a front bench with people who should have licences which restrict them to driving within the village.

Jason

25/03/2013ToM, And it blew up in his face and he was rightly sacked! Nothing changes the fact these morons couldn't get the numbers and organise a decent spill.

TalkTurkey

25/03/2013Round the turn, into the straight, Pardon me this quip: Give RED CAVIAR her head, And never mind the Whip! You can still get $ixe$! Punters, take my tip! Now RED CAVIAR will WIN! And never need that Whip!

2353

25/03/2013Casablanca, most of the (alleged) alternate Government ministers are the has-beens from the Howard years or some that Howard wouldn't even look at. Please don't insult the village idiots, at least they can't help the deal they have been given ;-)

nasking

25/03/2013 [b]Liealot otoh, lying to the AEC, lying to the Parliament, lying about his slush fund, lying about the carbon price, lying about...pick a topic. [/b] JANE, ABBOTT IS ADDICTED TO LYING...AND NASTY SCHEMING. HIS PARTY MIGHT EVENTUALLY GAIN MORE POWER DUE TO HIS HABITS AND PATTERN OF BEHAVIOUR...AND THEIR ALLIANCE WITH THE MURDOCH EMPIRE...BUT IT WILL COME BACK TO BITE THEM. THERE WILL BE NO TRUST IN AN ABBOTT GOVT. AND IT WILL BE LED BY A MAN THAT MANY LOATHE...AND BELIEVE IS TOO GUTLESS TO BE QUESTIONED BY THE BEST OF INTERVIEWERS. IF I WERE PM GILLARD I WOULD ALLOW MYSELF TO BE INTERVIEWED FAR AND WIDE...BY THE BEST. DEMONSTRATE THE COURAGE ABBOTT DOES NOT POSSESS. --- JANE, THNX FOR THE BEST WISHES RE: TIME WITH FAMILY. IT WAS A MOST STIMULATING TIME WITH PLENTY OF BUSH WALKS AND LOTS OF GOOD DISCUSSION. MY STEPMOM AND HER HUSBAND FROM COLORADO HAD PLENTY TO SAY ABOUT THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF FOX NEWS, RUSH LIMBAUGH AND THE TEA PARTY...AND HOW THEY DUMB DOWN THE POPULATION, SPREAD LIES AND DISTORTIONS...AND PREVENT A UNIFIED RESPONSE TO AMERICA'S PROBLEMS. LARRY IS A PROUD GUN OWNER FROM WAY BACK AND HIS SON TEACHES SPORTS' SHOOTERS HOW TO USE GUNS SAFELY AND APPROPRIATELY...BOTH DETEST THIS PRESENT CONSPIRACY-ORIENTED APPROACH BY THE NRA AND THEIR MEDIA ETC SUPPORTERS...DO NOT BELIEVE AVERAGE CITIZENS SHOULD HAVE ACCESS TO ASSAULT WEAPONS...AND THE LA PIERRE AND LOOPY STANCE IS DAMAGING THE ENTIRE SHOOTING CULTURE...CREATING DIVISION WHERE IT NEED NOT BE...AND PUTTING COMMON-SENSE IN THE BIN. THEY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THE MOVIE 'LINCOLN'... AND LARRY, ORIGINALLY FROM IOWA, AND A REPUBLICAN UNTIL HE SAW THE DAMAGE WROUGHT BY REAGAN'S 'TRICKLE DOWN ECONOMICS' HAS A LOT OF TIME FOR OBAMA...AND MY STEPMOM, A NURSE FOR FOUR DECADES WHO MIGRATED FROM CANADA, THINKS OBAMA DID THE RIGHT THING BY WAY OF THEN HEALTHCARE REFORM...AND THEY NEED MORE...DUE TO A DOUGHNUT HOLE RELATED TO PRESCRIPTION COSTS. APPARENTLY, THEY'VE HEARD PEOPLE RAGE AGAINST 'OBAMACARE' BUT WHEN QUESTIONED THEY KNOW NOTHING BUT BS ABOUT IT THEY HEARD ON FOX NEWS ETC...AND ACTUALLY APPROVE OF MOST OF THE CHANGES WHEN TOLD IN DETAIL. REMINDED ME OF OUR SITUATION HERE...A TOP ECONOMY MADE TO LOOK LIKE IT'S DOING BADLY DUE TO BAD GOVT DECISIONS...PEOPLE DOING OKAY MADE TO FEEL LIKE THEY ARE SUFFERING LIKE THIRD WORLDERS. N'

nasking

25/03/2013 THE PEOPLE DESERVE TO KNOW WHO THEY ARE VOTING FOR: [b]Boris Johnson caught in bicycle crash of an interview with Eddie Mair London mayor admitted he had 'sandpapered' a quote in a Times story and failed to deny he had lied to his party leader[/b] http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2013/mar/24/boris-johnson-interview-eddie-mair IF BORIS WANTED ROUGH JUSTICE OVER PRIVACY INTRUSION YEARS AGO...THEN WHY IS HE SO KEEN NOW TO SUCK UP TO PHONE HACKING BOSS MURDOCH? LIKE ABBOTT, BORIS IS YET ANOTHER ATTENTION-SEEKER WHO PUTS ON A SPECTACLE...BUT NASTINESS LIES BENEATH...COVERED IN A SHELL OF BS AND OPPORTUNISM. N'

Jason

25/03/2013Leigh Sales‏@leighsales1m My guest on #abc730 tonight is the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard.

42 long

25/03/2013Whether by personal gain, misguided loyalty or foolishness,If one acts, the fundamental consideration is "DO YOU HAVE THE NUMBERS". Rudd shows little concern for the success or failure of Labor currently. He is centred on HIS situation. Same as LOTO who will damage good businesses and trash the country's reputation to gain power. Backgrounding the news puts the PM and the Party in a totally impossible and unacceptable position. Crean responds to that situation. That's fair enough. They were probably "spooked" by the media and that was what the media wanted to do so it is a success story for them. The question is though. Should the media be so actively involved in a political outcome? IF they have this power will any elected government respond to media wishes to avoid criticism which damages them electorially? The answer is that they WILL and they DO give in. Gillard and Conroy have chosen to deny Murdoch what he wants with the NBN The Overseas radio tender and the ABC. Murdoch never ceases to rail against the BBC which he describes as the Greatest ENEMY of FREE SPEECH. Clearly he regards pretty much anything he doesn't control as not free speech. We should treat his enterprises like the Canadians have. Who voted for Murdoch ? No-one. Does he have the means to change the voting pattern significantly .OF COURSE. That is why governments do what he wants. THAT is what Leveson was all about. Hawke gave Murdoch more coverage because fairfax had dudded him a bit. Monopoly in media is highly dangerous whoever has it.

nasking

25/03/2013 JASON, TWO THUMBS UP. GUTSY WOMAN OUR PM. SADLY, OUR FOXTEL HAS BEEN DOWN SINCE THE STORM...SECOND TIME IN A FORTNIGHT...SO MANY OF OUR LOVED SHOWS SPOILT DUE TO NOT BEING ABLE TO SEE OR RECORD THEM. BRING ON THE NBN. I WILL WATCH 7:30 ON THE IPAD. N'

Casablanca

25/03/20132353 @ March 25. 2013 11:53 AM, you said: [i]Casablanca, most of the (alleged) alternate Government ministers are the has-beens from the Howard years or some that Howard wouldn't even look at. Please don't insult the village idiots, at least they can't help the deal they have been given[/i] I don't understand the last sentence. I did not call anyone a village idiot. In my original comment I was picking up on a statement that Abbott made this morning, namely, that the PM would have a front bench of L-Platers. I used his analogy to driving, to say that his front bench, by comparison, were at the other end of the driving experience, ie that they qualified for a restricted licence requiring them to make only short trips.

nasking

25/03/2013 NEW LINEUP...ALBO LEFT IN TEAM. GOOD, I LIKE ALBO. HE DOESN'T COP CRAP...AND HAS AN AMIABLE PERSONALITY. ARTICULATE AND FUN TO WATCH. CLARE IS A WINNER. HARD WORKER. SMART. ATTRACTIVE. PM MATERIAL. PLEASED THE TALENTED COMBET ALSO HAS Industry and Innovation ADDED to his portfolio...WORKS. BURKE IS A FRIENDLY FACE WITH AN ABILITY TO NEGOTIATE...AND SURPRISE. GOOD COMMUNICATOR. I LIKE DREYFUS. SOMETHING ABOUT THE GUY...HE COMES ACROSS LIKE AN EARNEST CHARACTER WHO GIVES A DAMN ABOUT PROTECTING RIGHTS AND PROMOTING THE COMMON GOOD. ALSO HIGHLY INTELLIGENT. EMERSON IS EMERSON. A BLOKE WHO GETS THE JOB DONE WITH GUSTO AND GOOD HUMOUR...AND SINGS AS WELL AS THE AVERAGE BLOKE. NOT SURE ABOUT GRAY...I GUESS HE HAS EXPERIENCE WITH RESOURCE COMPANIES...THAT SHOULD KEEP THE MOANING WA CROWD HAPPY...AT LEAST THOSE WHO THINK THE SUN SHINES OUTA THE MINING BACKSIDE. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-03-25/julia-gillard-announces-cabinet-reshuffle/4592338 N'

bob macalba

25/03/2013Is this really a story? im only linking it so somebody might be able to explain to me WTF its all about http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/dinosaur-as-bunny-a-really-bad-look/story-e6frf7jo-1226605026294 really this passes as news FFS

2353

25/03/2013Sorry Casablanca - I wasn't aware of the availability of restricted licences (there doesn't seem to be a "village licence" option in Queensland. See here -> http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Licensing/Licence-suspensions-and-disqualifications/Probationary-and-restricted-licences.aspx). Now that I am, I can see exactly what you mean - and it has nothing to do with village idiots.

Bloss

25/03/2013Nasking I absolutely concur with everything you wrote in your last comment re the new line up. Also just saw the Prime Minister on ABC24 explaining the changes and she handled herself with aplomb.

bob macalba

25/03/2013I get it , the PM is not allowed to meet vile Sanderland[wotever his last name is] cause he's said naughty things, wonder how the new pope felt when he met mugabe

nasking

25/03/2013 INTERESTINGLY, THE ABC ONLINE LINK TO THE NEW LINEUP DOES NOT HAVE AS MUCH DETAIL...AND ANNOYINGLY, SUSPICIOUSLY PUT UP A BIG RED BANNER AT THE TOP READING 'LABOR IN TURMOIL'...THAT WAS NOT ORIGINALLY THERE. I FOUND THIS USEFUL: http://news.brisbanetimes.com.au/breaking-news-national/albanese-promoted-in-newlook-ministry-20130325-2gp7g.html N'

nasking

25/03/2013 THO, I DO RECOMMEND THE VID OF THE PM AT THE ABC SITE. N'

nasking

25/03/2013 [b]Also just saw the Prime Minister on ABC24 explaining the changes and she handled herself with aplomb.[/b] I HOPE SHE IS NOW GIVEN THE APPROPRIATE SPACE TO GET ON WITH THE JOB...NO MORE INTERNAL DISTRACTIONS. THAT WOULD BE HIGHLY UNPROFESSIONAL AND SEEN AS TRAITOROUS CONSIDERING THE 2010 LEAKING AND THE DAMAGE IT DID. THEY HAD THEIR CHANCE. ALP PARLIAMENTARIANS CAN ALWAYS AIR THEIR VIEWS ONCE THE ELECTION IS OVER...IF THEY CAN'T BITE THEIR TONGUES FOR THAT LONG THEN THEY OBVIOUSLY WANT ABBOTT TO WIN. IT'S TIME TO DO AS AD ASTRA DID AND EXAMINE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE PARTIES. THO, I WILL NOT STOP URGING MEDIA REFORM. AND POINTING OUT THAT ABBOTT IS A MURDOCH BROWN-NOSER. N'

Jason

25/03/2013bob macalba, I have no idea what that story was about!But I don't think it was "news" a bitchy rant yes news no.

nasking

25/03/2013 MUCH MORE DETAIL FROM ABC ONLINE NOW...INFORMING READERS OF WHO IS IN...AND WHO IS OUT: JAN MCLUCAS AS MINISTER FOR HUMAN SERVICES...GREAT TO SEE A FORMER TEACHER IN THAT AREA. MATT THISTLETHWAITE MADE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY FOR PACIFIC ISLAND AND MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS...A PROGRESSIVE CATHOLIC. GOOD CHOICE. SHAYNE NEUMANN COMES ACROSS AS A GENUINELY NICE FELLA WHO GIVES A DAMN. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR. AMANDA RISHWORTH IS SMART, FULL OF ENERGY AND DETERMINED. CAN BE QUITE BUBBLY IN THAT RESPECT ME FOR MY MIND NOT JUST MY BUTT WAY. I LIKE SEEING OPTIMISM DISPLAYED. PLENTY OF ENERGY AND BRAINS THERE...INCLUDING DANBY...IF THE GILLARD TEAM GETS THE SPACE TO PUSH THEIR POLICIES THEY DESERVE: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-03-25/julia-gillard-cabinet-reshuffle/4592132 N'

nasking

25/03/2013 [b]Andrew Leigh Appointed as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister[/b]. NOW HE'S A SMART COOKIE. KINDA GUY WHO IS IGNORED BY A LOT OF BLOKES DUE TO HIS SOFTLY SPOKEN STYLE...BUT HE KNOWS HIS STUFF. MIGHT DO HIM WELL TO DO THE SUIT THING LESS. N'

42 long

25/03/2013There is plenty of talent in the parliamentary Labor Party. IF there is an equal level of it in the lieNP they have kept it under wraps. Too busy relying on that orchestrated spin crap which turns everyone off politics and where facts and truth have no place. Where the Oppn set records for being ejected from Parliament for BAD behaviour. When this is noticed the commentators blame both sides equally. That is their way out 100 odd suspension of standing otders in question time didn't have anything to do with the labor side of things. What an inexcuseable performance for so long Pulling silly faces behind Anna Burkes back and poking the tongue out. 13 year old kids would behave better. No wonder the young people don't consider being in Parliament a possibility for them. You have done a great job Tony!!! Hardly. You are a Barbarian mate. An old and true statement is that " The graveyards are FULL of Indispensible People" applies.

Bacchus

25/03/2013<b>LAST NIGHT'S STORM HERE IN LOGAN WAS TERRIFYING...<b> I've lived here going on for 30 years Nas, and I've never seen anything like it. The last really nasty storm I remember was in 1986 - we suffered some damage from a large gum tree at the back - it was removed shortly thereafter. The only time I've experienced winds like that was in a cyclone - it's be interesting to see what the wind speeds were. This time, no damage to the house, but the clothesline has been monstered by a large chunk of Jacaranda. $880 to get the tree debris cleaned up & still waiting for a quote on the clothesline. Power was out till about 5:00 this morning & Cable Internet is still out (like your Foxtel). I hope you and S are alright - no damage to person or property...

jane

25/03/2013SOUNDS LIKE THE FAMILY VISIT WAS A GREAT SUCCESS, AND VERY INTERESTING TO GET A FIRST HAND TAKE ON THE TEA PARTY'S EFFECT ON US POLITICS. YOUR STEP MUM'S HUSBAND SOUNDS LIKE A GOOD EGG AND CAN SEE THROUGH THE NRA'S PROPAGANDA ON GUN CONTROL. WRT OBAMACARE, YOUR STEP MUM WOULD HAVE SEEN THAT IGNORANCE UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL. AND IT SHOWS HOW RELENTLESS NEGATIVE REPORTING SHAPES PUBLIC OPINION TO THE EXTENT THAT PEOPLE WILL VOTE AGAINST THEIR BEST INTERESTS. OF COURSE, THERE ARE STILL THE USUAL SUSPECTS WHO REFUSE TO EQUATE THE US-FOX EXPERIENCE WITH THE RUPERT RINEHART MSM HERE AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT VOTERS ARE BEING SOLD A LIARS PARTY PUP BY THE MSM. GLAD YOU SURVIVED THE WILD WEATHER. WE'VE HAD A BIT IN MY NECK OF THE WOODS, TOO-40 KNOT WINDS, HORIZONTAL RAIN ETC. MY POOR EGGPLANTS TOOK QUITE A BATTERING. THE NEW LINEUP DOES SEEM PRETTY GOOD. i'M GLAD aLBO IS STILL THERE; HE IS THE TERROR OF THE LIARS. BACK IN 2010, I WENT TO A FUND RAISER FOR AMANDA RISHWORTH ORGANISED BY ONE OF MY DAUGHTER'S FRIENDS. SHE CAME ACROSS AS A REALLY GOOD EGG, BRIGHT, BUBBLY AND FULL OF ENTHUSIASM. THE DEADWOOD HAS BEEN CLEARED OUT AND IT LOOKS LIKE THERE WILL BE A BRIGHT, SHINY FRONT BENCH FULL OF ENTHUSIASM I'M GLAD ANDREW LEIGH IS THE PM'S PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY. A SHREWD APPOINTMENT, IMO. Casablanca @11.48am you're so right. Restricted licences for that mob of Howard's Has Beens. They're getting sillier the older they get. bob macalba @12.59pm, just another ho hum bash the PM rant. As Jason says just a bitchy rant-sound and fury signifying nothing.

Sir Ian Crisp

25/03/2013[quote][b] [...] Now that the legislation looks like being carried in the main and all the leadership nonsense is disposed of I think we can begin to understand the PM's strategy in pushing the media bills through at this particular time when Murdoch was being challenged and defeated in the UK. PS I am having problems with my gravatar. Patriciawa [/b][/quote] That's not the only thing your having trouble with. Your horoscope seems to be way out. Check the date of the newspaper.

Tom of Melboune

25/03/2013I really enjoy the way people here attack the enemies of the ALP. Usually that’s Abbott (and still plenty of Howard) Now though, the enemies of the ALP are about 40% of the ALP MPs. Yay TPS! Everyone who doesn’t conform to their narrow definition of ALP supporter is an enemy. Tanner Richardson Rudd Crean Carr Ferguson Bowen McClelland Kelty Go TPS get stuck into the “enemy”!!

Sir Ian Crisp

25/03/2013[quote][b]Ad, INDEED...ABBOTT IS A WALKING DISASTER. THAT'S WHY HE DIDN'T WIN GOVT LAST TIME. NOR DID HE GET THE SAME LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE THAT PM GILLARD DID DURING THE LEADERSHIP BALLOTS. HE BARELY GOT THE LEADERSHIP...ONE VOTE. GILLARD WON A BIG MAJORITY. TELLS ME A LOT. N' nasking [/b][/quote] Gee no king, you're sounding a bit 'negative'. I thought this was a positive blog.

Sir Ian Crisp

25/03/2013[quote][b]More hilarity!! There were many here who reflected that Crean had brought this to a head in a most self sacrificing way. He’d acted honourably to silence the backgrounders. Now we know that he was acting because he specifically sought to roll Gillard and Swan! Crean knew that Gillard was loathed by the electorate (and for good reason), he knew that Swan is legitimately regarded as a blithering idiot. Crean wanted a change, in order to give the ALP an electoral chance, but he acted without Rudd’s endorsement. www.news.com.au/.../story-fncynjr2-1226605153494 Go Labor! Tom of Melboune [/b][/quote] Steady on Tom. I think if you reflect on some of the comments here you'll notice that it was the bird of paradox who engineered the whole mess. Apparently she had some spare time in her crowded diary so she thought a coup would liven things up a little in dreary Canberra. She lined up against... NO ONE and defeated... NO ONE in a resounding victory.

Jason

25/03/2013ToM, Gee your funny! a card carrying member of the democrats is here giving us advice as to how the ALP should run it's affairs! You don't even have so much as a mayor elected anywhere let alone a backbench with talent on it! You're a joke!

Sir Ian Crisp

25/03/2013[quote][b]ToM, Gee your funny! a card carrying member of the democrats is here giving us advice as to how the ALP should run it's affairs! You don't even have so much as a mayor elected anywhere let alone a backbench with talent on it! You're a joke! Jason [/b][/quote] The laughter and frivolity doesn't end there JGuy. The ALP has a frontbench with no talent at all but each member of the frontbench has a brown nose.

Tom of Melboune

25/03/2013Great point Jason. But let’s not forget that the most intelligent and talented members of Gillard’s own ministry didn’t want her! Even Albo preferred Rudd. We’ve now got the F Team, and 40% of ALP parliamentarians who would prefer another leader. Gillard sure knows how to build a team!!

Jason

25/03/2013Good god The two scissor sisters are after me! or is it B1 and B2 no just Bevis and Butthead!

Pikiranku

25/03/2013There's an interesting flashback here about Garry Gray: http://paper.li/austpoliticstv Is he still a climate change denialist or has he since seen the light?

Ad astra

25/03/2013Folks I have just posted [i]Polls perpetually poison politics[/i]. http://www.thepoliticalsword.com/post/2013/03/25/Polls-perpetually-poison-politics.aspx
How many umbrellas are there if I have two in my hand but the wind then blows them away?