Senator Kate Lundy today called on the Minister for Sport to justify the appointment of Mr Alan Jones as Deputy Chairman of the Australian Sports Commission (ASC).
“Given his obvious political support for the Coalition Government, Ms Kelly should explain the reasons behind Mr Jones’ selection and provide details of other candidates considered for the position of Deputy Chair of the ASC.
“The Minister might also explain whether the Prime Minister assisted or directed her in the appointment of Mr Jones”, Senator Lundy said.
“And while the Minister is explaining the merits of Mr Jones’ appointment to the ASC board she can also explain the merits of her other appointment, failed Liberal candidate for Melbourne Ports, Margot Foster.
“I hope that the appointment of Mr Jones to the position is based on his success as a rugby union coach, rather than his success in promoting Coalition policies during the last election.”
Mr Jones’ political influence was endorsed by senior Liberal figure Michael Kroger, who told Lateline on 6 October that: “you can’t underestimate the Alan Jones factor in New South Wales. I mean, he has hundreds of thousands of listeners every day and, even though people like John Laws are extremely influential as well, Alan Jones seeks to exercise his influence far more than John or any other commentator. He’s a very powerful figure”. Mr Kroger added that “the bad news for the Labor Party is that he {Mr Jones] supports John Howard”.
“Until Ms Kelly can justify her selection of Mr Jones, there may be some lingering doubts about whether his appointment is a reward by the Howard Government for his partisan support for Coalition policies”, Senator Lundy said.
Contact: Simon Tatz on 0418 488295
