Thursday, February 15, 2007
SHY PETE
Peter Garrett has an odd habit when addressing Parliament; he repeatedly turns his back on the microphone, the better to speak directly at his ALP colleagues. You’d think a former singer would know how to work an amplification system. He’s also self-silencing in press conferences:
Labor environment spokesman Peter Garrett has today refused to give his views on reports the United States is to build a new military communications base in WA.
Hardly surprising, considering how maladroit was Garrett the last time he spoke about US bases in Australia.
UPDATE. Garrett yesterday:
When journalists asked him repeatedly about the new base, Labor’s environment spokesman preferred to talk about the environment.
"Peter, you’re well known for your views on the US alliance. How do you feel about …” one journalist tried.
Mr Garrett’s response? “I’m astonished that the Treasurer hasn’t actually had his eye on the ball on climate change."
And Garrett today:
Labor frontbencher Peter Garrett says he fully supports his party’s endorsement of a new US military communications base planned for Western Australia.