Former premier Mike Rann to become Australia's next High Commissioner to London
FORMER premier Mike Rann's appointment as High Commissioner to Britain has found favour across the political divide.
FORMER premier Mike Rann's appointment as High Commissioner to Britain has found favour across the political divide, despite a warning of diplomatic postings becoming MPs' "retirement villages".
Mr Rann will be named by Prime Minister Julia Gillard within days to the job.
He will take up the post in the new year 50 years since he emigrated from Britain.
Former foreign affairs minister and political foe Alexander Downer backed the nomination, saying ex-politicians can be even more effective than career diplomats in posts such as London. "He is well known ... here and in the UK," he said.
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However, the Opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman, Julie Bishop, warned against turning embassies into retirement villages for ex-politicians.
The plum London post is keenly sought-after and Mr Rann's selection is likely to draw claims of Labor handing out jobs for the boys.
But Mr Downer said ex-politicians can be even more effective than career diplomats in certain missions such as the key London and Washington posts.
The latter is currently held by two-times Labor leader Kim Beazley.
"If they have a good relationship with their own government, it can give them more sway when representing their country abroad," he said.
"If the High Commissioner is close enough to the Australian Prime Minister to be able to pick up the phone and dial direct, that can be very useful in getting things done."
He said Mr Rann was a well-connected person who would likely do a very good job in what is an extremely busy and demanding role.
"It's not all Ascot and Wimbledon, there's plenty to do in a very extensive relationship between the two countries," he said.
My message to Mike Rann is "good luck, work hard, and I hope you enjoy it".