NewsBite

Albo’s job? Critique or support?

How often have we heard “if only we had a national plan”? Well, as clearly enunciated by Greg Sheridan (“Morrison is first among leaders as the world order changes”, 28-29/3) and Dennis Shanahan (“Albo’s attacks on crisis plan could backfire”, 28-29/3), ably supported by Ewin Hannan (“The odd couple truce to save jobs”, 28-29/3), we do. The only one to spoil the party is Peter van Onselen (“Not good enough for our leaders to just be followers”, 28-29/3). The Prime Minister had shown real leadership in pulling together red and blue states and territories in creating a democratic national model that’s working. Even the ACTU is in his corner.

This statesmanship should not be ignored at this critical time in our history; it needs the support of everyone to save lives and help those whose livelihoods are falling between the cracks. Well done to all involved.

Ian C. Murray, Cremorne Point, NSW

How gratifying it is to read of the praise being given to Scott Morrison by the leaders of state and territory jurisdictions, five of which are Labor leaders, in his chairmanship of the national cabinet. Political point-scoring has been swept aside in the fight against COVID-19.

Regrettably, federal Labor is not on the same page. We constantly read of Anthony Albanese, Jim Chalmers, Chris Bowen, Tony Burke, Kristina Keneally and others criticising this cabinet on virtually every move and decision it makes. The sole aim of federal Labor seems to be to vilify with no aim other than winning the next election. Even Sally McManus and the unions are talking with government and supporting the decisions being made. Albanese should back off.

Nick Bailey, Ngunnawal, ACT

Peter van Onselen is critical of the political leadership in this pandemic, accusing it of hiding behind expert advice. The national response is measured, flexible and data-dependent. The national cabinet is a marvellous and timely invention. Peter, join the national effort before it’s too late.

Garry Tam, North Bondi, NSW

A number of correspondents have written to criticise Anthony Albanese for politicising the coronavirus debate. I can’t think of any action more guaranteed to achieve this politicisation than the PM calling a federal (war) cabinet and omitting the leader of the federal Opposition.

Barry Harrod, Fig Tree Pocket, Qld

While people are struggling with the life and death issue of the coronavirus, the loss of jobs and freedom of movement, the country needs united politicians that give hope and reassurance. It is not helpful to have the Leader of the Opposition proposing grandiose post-pandemic schemes on social housing and workplace reforms. These are vote-catching, fanciful proposals for another time.

B. Della-Putta, Thorngate, SA

In a similar way to Paul Keating’s remark of a few years ago regarding micro-economic policy, every pet shop galah is ready with its opinion on how to respond to the coronavirus. Resident galahs (including “expert” galahs) are squawking that their policy initiative will stop the spread of the virus in a couple of weeks if only the government would adopt it. Other galahs are critical of the government’s policies as being too much, too little, too little-too late.

A bipartisan approach has quickly disappeared and much of the media is throwing civility out of the window when interviewing government ministers, particularly the Prime Minister.

All of this may be regarded as democracy at work where, unlike in authoritarian regimes, citizens can shout their opinions and disagree with their governments without being imprisoned or shot. However, a successful outcome is more likely to be achieved if we can maintain national unity and give constructive support to our elected federal and state governments in their efforts to grapple with this unprecedented situation.

Michael Wills, Armadale, Vic

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/commentary/letters/albos-job-critique-or-support/news-story/75cc48c92a889a2e62bebe04a49f07b3