PM Transcripts

Transcripts from the Prime Ministers of Australia

Howard, John

Period of Service: 11/03/1996 - 03/12/2007
Release Date:
07/07/1999
Release Type:
Interview
Transcript ID:
11202
Released by:
  • Howard, John Winston
TRANSCRIPT OF THE PRIME MINISTER THE HON JOHN HOWARD MP COMMENTS ON THE RESIGNATION OF MR BILL SKATE TOKYO, JAPAN

E&OE.............

PRIME MINISTER:

Mr Skate's resignation and whoever the future Prime Minister of Papua

New Guinea is is a matter naturally for the government of that country

and the parliament of that country. My Government has worked closely

with Mr Skate's Government over the last couple of years particularly

in relation to the progress that's been made concerning Bougainville.

But as to the future personalities in the Government and who occupies

what position and who is Prime Minister that is entirely a matter

for the people of PNG.

JOURNALIST:

Do you know what's going to happen with PNG's recognition of Taiwan

in the wake of Mr Skate's resignation?

PRIME MINISTER:

I don't have anything to add to what I said this morning about that.

JOURNALIST:

But it was an unfortunate timing was it for his departure?

PRIME MINISTER:

I don't have anything to add to what I said this morning.

[ends]

11202