Kim Beazley (Brand, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

My question is to the Treasurer, and it follows his revelation of a continued sojourn by him, lonely in his cold flat in Canberra. Treasurer, while you were being warmed by Mr Latham’s diaries, did you also have the chance to read Laurie Oakes in the Bulletin magazine yesterday, where Mr Oakes recalled your interview about the government’s industrial relations changes on radio 2GB with Alan Jones last week, and which contained the following analysis of your performance? Treasurer, did you read this:

By refusing to deal squarely with the questions Jones raised, by attempting to use the ‘confuse and stupefy’ technique, Costello came off sounding not only devious but also out of touch and even a bit thick.

Treasurer, do you agree with Laurie Oakes?

Peter Costello (Higgins, Liberal Party, Treasurer) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I have to say that I find Laurie Oakes great company. If you ever get the opportunity to have a bite to eat with Laurie, take it, especially if he is paying the bill. I must say that I have a new idea: the next time that I am lonely and cold in my flat I will give Laurie a call. I will get him around for a cup of tea, and I tell you what: if we can order in some Kentucky Fried Chicken I will have the Leader of the Opposition around as well.