Downer Launches Attack on Keating, Unveils New Liberal Policy Focus

Strategic Insights -

The Liberal Party Opposition Leader, Alexander Downer, has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Paul Keating, criticizing his "privileged upbringing and lifestyle" and accusing him of being a "fast-money man." Downer also foreshadowed a significant shift in the party's policy focus, moving away from economic issues and towards family concerns.

Key Takeaways:

  • Downer has called for a more family-focused policy platform, with less emphasis on hard economic issues, and plans to release a revamped policy platform within three months.
  • The new leader has also hinted at a smaller shadow ministry, with a core group of about 15 members to control Opposition policy and tactics.
  • Downer has accused Prime Minister Keating of being a "fast-money man" who has made a great deal of money through business activities outside Parliament.
  • The Liberal leader has said he will not be criticized for his own privileged background, pointing out that Keating has made similar complaints about him.
  • Downer has vowed to play "the game by the same standards of decency" and has accused Keating of being out of touch with ordinary Australians.
  • The new Liberal leader has also signaled a desire to reduce the party's front bench to not more than 32 members, and has mentioned several potential casualties and beneficiaries of the reshuffle.

Statistics:

  • The Liberal Party's shadow ministry currently has 37 members.
  • Downer plans to reduce the shadow ministry to not more than 32 members.
  • About 15 members will form the inner group that controls Opposition policy and tactics.
  • Dr. Hewson's shadow ministry had 37 members, with 23 in the shadow cabinet.
  • The Liberal Party's new policy platform is expected to be released within three months.
  • The new policy focus will place more emphasis on family issues, such as the arts and the environment, foreign affairs, and defense.

Sources:

  • Canberra Times, Geoffrey Barker (no date mentioned)
  • ABC's 7.30 Report, featuring Alexander Downer (no date mentioned)