Malcolm Turnbull has chosen an excellent issue to rise through the ranks with in water. Given the serious problems around the nation with water usage, Howard created the Office of Water Resources this week and an expected new Junior Minister position that Turnbull will fill. It gives Turnbull the opportunity to gain further press coverage on a national stage - the issue of water usage will increase as the drought continues. Turnbull continues in his role as Parliamentary Secretary to Howard, and arrangement that seems to suit both men well. There has been speculation in both the Fairfax and News press that Turnbull is being used by Howard as a pawn in his chess game with Peter Costello. The longer Howard stays as Prime Minister, and Turnbull continues rising through the ranks, the more the whispers will grow of his potential as an alternate leader to Costello...
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3 comments:
Ben, the Prime Minister allocates portfolios. Turnbull did not chose it.
At least with Turnbull, we might get a more sensible republic referendum question in 2009, 10 years after the last one. I know he had a public profile before parliament, but first-termer to party leader? We'd need a stronger adjective than "Meteoric".
So who would the contenders be in the next leadership election? From where I sit...
Costello, obviously.
Nelson, sensible, solid performer.
Turnbull, chances improving daily.
Abbott, joke candidate.
Downer, has had his turn.
bryan - a quick look at Malcolm Turnbull's history and you will see that he has been vocal on the issues of water and taxation prior to his appointment by Howard as parliamentary secretary and as being responsible for water policy. Turnbull's interest and understanding of the issue of water conservation probably made it an easy choice for the PM.
I never said Turnbull chose his position, only his issue.
Mike - I don't think Turnbull would seriously challenge Costello, but there would be speculation. Costello is the only real alternative to Howard - Nelson's problems with Defence undermine his chances, and no one else can seriously be considered.
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