NEW MINISTERIAL ARRANGEMENTS – DEFENCE
The move of Christopher Pyne from Defence Industry to the broader Defence portfolio is a logical development and very welcome news. During the leadership turmoil of last week, for a while it looked as if he was prepared to move from the Ministry – or even possibly retire from Parliament – if Peter Dutton succeeded in his push to become prime minister. The loss of Pyne would have been a tremendous blow for Australian defence industry, on whose behalf he has worked tirelessly for the past two years. For his most recent in depth interview, go here: https://venturaapdr.partica.online/apdr/apdr-sept-2018/flipbook/50/
During his time as Defence Industry minister, he has participated in all of the important deliberations of the National Security Committee of Cabinet and so has as much relevant knowledge of Defence issues as the departing Marise Payne, who is a worthy successor to Julie Bishop as Foreign Minister. Christopher Pyne will take with him all of his defence industry knowledge – which is considerable – and he has indicated that he will continue to remain directly involved in that part of the portfolio. The new Defence Industry Minister, Steve Ciobo, would do well to try an emulate the enthusiasm and personal style of his predecessor – though with only a few months to go before the next Federal election it is unclear what impact he will have on the portfolio. However, with a background in trade he is experienced in the needs of Australian industry and so his new appointment is also a sound piece of judgement.
