COLIN BARNETT is safe—Joe Francis says he has no plans to lead the Liberal party, despite his elevation this week to Cabinet.
The Jandakot MP, re-elected March 9 with an enormous swing, has been given three portfolios: emergency services, corrective services and veterans.
Despite the premier saying last year Mr Francis would one day make a good leader, the MP laughs off the Herald’s suggestion his promotion could mean he’s being groomed.
“I’ve made it clear I have no leadership aspirations,” he chuckles. “I’m not that bloke.”
He was surprised but pleased to get promoted.
“I wasn’t expecting anything. I was quietly hopeful but if you go to bed with expectations you are only going to wake up disappointed.”
He’s not fazed by the high-pressure emergency services portfolio, which cost Rob Johnson his ministerial career when he bungled handling the Roleystone-Kelmscott blazes.
“I think we have a proud record in emergency services, but there is still a bit to do,” Mr Francis says. “All I can do is be overly prepared for every situation.”
Formerly an officer in the Royal Australian Navy, he’s looking forward to getting his teeth stuck into the veterans portfolio. One of the first big jobs to manage will be Anzac Day, including preparations for a centennial commemoration in Albany next year.
by BRENDAN FOSTER
I congratulate Joe on his elevation to the ministry. It is well deserved and he well qualified for the three portfolios that he has.
WA has long lagged behind the other states in the appointment of a minister for Veteran’s Affairs and there is a lot of work to be done in this area.
Best of luck for the future.