Australian Deputy Prime Minister resigns
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Australia's Deputy Prime Minster John Anderson resigned today citing health concerns.
Anderson suffers from a benign tumor in his prostate and said he feels that only by cutting back his official and policial commitments would his condition improve.
Anderson also said in a speech to parliament he will be stepping down as leader of the National Party of Australia -- the junior partner in the current Liberal Party of Australia coalition government. Deputy Leader of the Nationals Mark Vaile will replace Anderson.
Sources
edit- "Australia's deputy PM resigns for health reasons" — Forbes, June 22, 2005
- AP. "Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Resigns" — Guardian, June 23, 2005