Julie Bishop Indicates She Will Run Again in Next Federal Election
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Former Australian foreign minister Julie Bishop has seemingly ended speculation about her future, indicating she will run again in her safe WA seat of Curtin at the next federal poll.
Appearing at an event in Perth today, the former deputy Liberal leader said she had made the decision after receiving "overwhelming support" from her electorate.
"I think their interests come first," Ms. Bishop said, ABC News reported.
"It's very much a personal decision for me, but I believe the country needs stability and continuity at present."
The recent leadership turmoil that saw Malcolm Turnbull replaced as prime minister by Scott Morrison also ended Ms. Bishop's 11 years as deputy Liberal leader and five years as foreign minister.
She resigned from cabinet last Sunday after it emerged no West Australian federal MPs voted for her in the Liberal leadership ballot.
There has been speculation that she would leave Parliament at the next election.
It had also been predicted that she may be appointed as the successor to departing Governor-General Peter Cosgrove.
West Australian Premier Mark McGowan said he was not surprised Ms. Bishop had received the support of the electorate to run again.
"She has decided to fight on and that's her right," he said.
"Obviously she has decided to ignore the poor treatment she has received from her colleagues."
Ms. Bishop won the seat of Curtin with more than 70 per cent of the two-party vote at the last federal poll.
