Doorstop Interview

Brisbane

7 October 2009

SUBJECTS: Peter Costello's resignation

JOURNALIST:

We've heard Peter Costello announce today that he is going to bring forward his retirement.  What are your thoughts?

TREASURER:

Well, I think on behalf of the Government I would like to wish Peter Costello and his family all the best for the future.  We haven't always agreed and we've been sparring partners over the years but I think there is no doubting Peter's commitment to the country, so we wish his family all the best for the future.

JOURNALIST:

Are you surprised by the announcement and the timing?

TREASURER:

No I'm not particularly surprised, but that's a matter for Peter Costello.  He's had a long career in the national Parliament.  He served as a Treasurer for a very long period of time.  It's certainly one of those tough jobs in politics and Peter Costello served for a long time, so, I think we should wish he and his family all the best for the future.

JOURNALIST: 

There are rumblings of an overseas posting.  Is there any truth to that rumour?

TREASURER:

Well, there certainly has been no offers from the Government.  But I think the Prime Minister has made it very clear that where there are talents and distinguished Australians and they are available, we are certainly interested in using them.

JOURNALIST:

Mr Costello says he's standing aside just in order to give renewal to the Coalition.  Do you think that is the real reason?

TREASURER:

Look, that's a matter for Mr Costello.  He has had a long career in the Parliament.  He has served in one of the most difficult jobs in the Parliament for a long period of time.  So I just wish he and his family all the best for the future.

JOURNALIST:

Brendan Nelson and Peter Costello stepping down together for the by-election.  Any thoughts on that at all.

TREASURER:

No, that's entirely a matter for Brendan Nelson and Peter Costello and the Liberal Party.

JOURNALIST:

Does it make it easier for the job of the Government given that there has been such, I guess, disunity in the Coalition over the ETS issue, that this is yet another divide.

TREASURER:

Well, today Peter Costello has announced his retirement from Parliament – that's a significant event and I don't intend to canvas all of those issues today.