Subjects: Max Moore Wilton
E&OE...........
TRANSCRIPT OF THE PRIME MINISTER THE HON JOHN HOWARD MPDOORSTOP INTERVIEW, SYDNEY
Subjects: Max Moore Wilton
E&OE…………………………………………………………………………………………...
JOURNALIST:
So what prompted Mr Moore Wilton';s decision?
PRIME MINISTER:
Well he';s taking up a position in the private sector. I';ve known for some time he could well do, he indicated that a little while ago. I';m very sorry that he';s going. He';s been a fantastic Departmental Secretary, he';s served Australia and the Government very well. At a public service level he';s overseen some major reforms, he';s been part of a public service team, he has advised the Government in relation to the economy, national security, social policy changes and in every way he';s been a quite outstanding adviser to me. I wish him well, I know that he';ll tackle his new position with his normal energy and commitment.
JOURNALIST:
And the area that he';s had greatest influence?
PRIME MINISTER:
I think generally in making certain that whilst maintaining the best traditions of the public service, the public service is responsive to the wishes and the goals of the elected government.
JOURNALIST:
And are you saying which company he';s going to?
PRIME MINISTER:
Not that';s a matter for him, that';s a matter for him. I mean he';s a free agent and that';s a matter for him to talk about.
JOURNALIST:
… a long serving…
PRIME MINISTER:
Well he has been somebody who';s worked in the public service for some years, then he went into the private sector and when I became Prime Minister I recruited him back to the public service and he';s given six and a half years of great loyalty and service to me and I thank Max very warmly for the advice he';s given me, the contribution he';s made to the Government and the service he';s rendered to Australia.
JOURNALIST:
Any idea on a replacement?
PRIME MINISTER:
No.
[ends]