WA: Court foreshadows cabinet reshuffle

AAP General News (Australia)
08-13-1999
WA: Court foreshadows cabinet reshuffle

West Australian Premier RICHARD COURT has played down reports of a leadership challenge,
but concedes his government is under pressure and a cabinet reshuffle is on the cards.

Mr COURT'S position has been shored up by frontbencher DOUG SHAVE -- tipped to takeover as
deputy in a leadership coup -- who says Mr COURT has his full support.

ABC radio reported yesterday that Liberal sources say Mr COURT has been put on notice.

The report said he'll be replaced before the end of the year by his deputy, Energy and
Resources Minister COLIN BARNETT, if he doesn't lift his game.

Mr COURT says his government has been under fire on issues such as forest policy, but the
reported threat to his leadership is rumour and speculation.

A spokeswoman for Mr BARNETT says he has no immediate ambition for the leadership, but
still hopes to takeover the top job if the opportunity arises in the future.

Mr COURT has been criticised in recent months for his handling of the forest issue, most
notably by Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD and prominent Liberals.

He was also damaged by the resignation of a senior adviser who undertook private
consultancy work without approval.

AAP RTV pr/shm/jn

KEYWORD: COURT (PERTH)

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