The PM really did attempt a very astute move nine days ago, which, as it turned out, didn’t quite work. On the Friday before last, the well-loved TV journo and now Griffith Uni professor Stan Grant, was minding his own business at home when the phone rang. It was Scott Morrison, wondering if Stan would pop by Kirribilli House to have a chat that afternoon?Credit:Yes, Prime Minister. The proposal the PM made, sitting in his study overlooking Sydney Harbour, was simple.
Stan thanked him for the offer, and told him he would need a week to think about it. There are many issues on which he has strong opinions and would love to have input, most particularly Indigenous affairs. On the other hand, he is not a member of any political party, let alone the Liberals, and if he did win there would be certain colleagues on the far right of the party he would not feel comfortable defending in the public domain.
“It was an honour to be asked by the Prime Minister,” Stan tells me, “but in the end that role is just not for me. I like what I am doing now, totally independently, and I don’t have to make my views fit within a party framework.”I entirely understand, but it is a pity. It was a clever idea of the PM, and if Stan had said yes, I really think he would have been one of the few who could hold it for the Libs – and Stan really would have a lot to offer as a politician.
“For her leadership and advocacy in promoting a more tolerant and inclusive Australia, and for shaping Australia's foreign policy dialogue.” - Statement announcing Senator Penny Wong as the winner of this year's McKinnon Prize for Political Leadership.Vegan stickers that have been found on packages in the meat and dairy sections of supermarkets.Jacinda Ardern on the alleged Christchurch terrorist.Will Connolly, aka 'Egg Boy', the 17-year-old who egged Senator Fraser Anning.Twitter user Ammara Siddique, referring to Egg Boy.
Peter_Fitz Must be the same Lear jets that went to Davos. What a surprise you at MT’s house? Fair dinkum.
Peter_Fitz Stan has built up so much respect and credibility over many years. Personally I think he would be crazy to enter politics at all. But pissing it up against the wall to join the Libs now would be insane. He only need look at Wazza Mundine to see a 3 ringed circus clown performing.
Peter_Fitz Has he asked you yet? you could be next on the list? He will have to run it by Alan first I suppose.