Quentin Bryce swears in son-in-law Bill Shorten in 2011. Picture: Renee Nowytarger
Source: The Australian
TONY Abbott has declined an offer from Quentin Bryce to leave the
post of Governor-General early because her son-in-law, Bill Shorten, is
Labor's new leader.
Mr Shorten, who is married to Ms Bryce's daughter Chloe, was today
elected Labor leader after a ballot of caucus members and grassroots
party members.Mr Abbott said he had spoken to the Governor-General in anticipation of today's result.
“The Governor-General offered to leave office early to avoid any perception of bias but due to the fact that she will retire in March next year and that the government commands the House of Representatives with a significant margin, I have thanked her for her magnanimity but declined to accept her resignation, instead asking that she conclude her full term,” he said in a statement.
“I am grateful that she has kindly agreed to my request.”
Mr Abbott said Ms Bryce was currently serving an extended term in office that she did not seek.
“Her agreement to stay on was a measure of her personal commitment to provide continuity at a time of political turbulence and she should be commended for her dedication to public service.
“I believe it is only fit and proper that she be permitted to conclude her term and be accorded the appropriate farewell that her exemplary service merits.”
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/concern-about-a-perception-of-bias-prompts-quentin-bryce-offer-to-quit-g-g-post-early/story-fn59niix-1226739150188
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