Former PM Scott Morrison gives first interview since federal election loss

Scott Morrison has revealed one “deep regret” he had during his time as PM in his first interview since his election loss.

Scott Morrison says he didn’t want to engage in the “political circus” of the criticism of his secret ministerial power grab.

The former prime minister was asked about his decision during his first post-election interview with his conservative ally Paul Murray, which aired on his Sky News program on Monday night.

During the prerecorded, nearly half-hour exchange, Mr Morrison said he wanted to focus as a backbench MP on serving his local community rather than the controversy.

“What I’m not into is getting engaged in the to and fro of the political circus of this and that … in responding to this criticism from someone having a sledge,” he said.

“I’m part of a team under Peter Dutton’s leadership and the shadow ministry that’s there and the other members. I want them to really find … their great talent expressed.”

Scott Morrison has taken part in his first interview post-election. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Former high court justice Virginia Bell will lead an inquiry set up by the Albanese government into Mr Morrison’s decision to secretly have himself appointed to administer five additional portfolios during the pandemic.

Mr Morrison has come under intense scrutiny in recent weeks for his actions, which blindsided many of his cabinet colleagues until they read about them in the media.

Mr Morrison has apologised for “offending” his colleagues, but he has remained defiant in defending his actions as necessary.

He reiterated the claim during his interview with Murray.

“At all times I was trying to do what was best for the country,” Mr Morrison said.

Asked if he should have apologised sooner, Mr Morrison said “I’ve explained the situation and I don’t expect everybody to agree”.

Mr Morrison also claimed he hadn’t been one to engage much in “the political fight” while he had been prime minister.

“When I look back over particularly the last three years, could I have been more engaged in the political fight over that time? They certainly were. That’s politics. I’m not having a crack at them,” he said.

Mr Morrison also reflected on his future, saying he was looking forward to spending more time with his family.

He said his time in the country’s top job had come with a “painful cost” for his daughters.

Mr Morrison said he regretted the toll his life as a politician had had on his children.

“Tony Abbott used to say, we’re volunteers, they’re conscripts and that’s probably one of the truest things Tony’s ever said, and very wise,” Mr Morrison said.

“They lived their entire lives with me in parliament, and most of it with me as a minister.”

Mr Morrison said he didn’t regret “the choices I’ve made to serve my country in politics” nor did his wife Jenny and the rest of their family.

Originally published as Former PM Scott Morrison gives first interview since federal election loss