It’s sad to read this, but thanks for keeping us informed. P.M. Howard has been a good friend to the USA, and we appreciate it.
“My fellow Australians, a few moments ago, I telephoned Mr Kevin Rudd and congratulate dhim and the Labor Party on an emphatic victory.
“He assumes the mantle of the 26th Prime Minister of AUstralia and there is no greater job.
“I wish him well in the task he will undertake, and I want to say on behalf of the coaltion that has governed for 11 1/2 years this country that we bequeath to him a nation that is stronger and prouder and more propserous than it was 11 1/2 years ago, and can I say to all of you that it has been an immense privilege to be the Prime Minister of this beautiful country, and I want to thank the AUstralian people for the privilege they have given me over that time. I respect it and I honour it.
The Australian people are the greatest people on earth and this is the greatest country on earth.
I’ve lead a government that has taken this country from deep debt to prosperity, a goverment that has never shirked responsibility.
Thanking people - parliamentary colleagues. Particularly Mark Vaile, John Anderson, Tim FIshcer (Deputy PMS), my Treasurer and Deputy, Peter Costello. A special debt of gratitude.
He endorses Costello as the future of the party.
Has to call for quiet so he can continue to speak.
Condolences to those who’ve lost their seats.
Particularly Mal Brough.
It’s a sad day. As a Brit I have always believed Howard wa s a modern great, a political giant.
To see him lose not only the election, but his own seat is very upsetting.
He didn’t deserve to go down as badly as he has done today.