Rupert the political meddler

Media baron Rupert Murdoch says it might be time for Prime Minister John Howard to resign, while he is at the top of his game.


Speaking to ABC radio outside a White House dinner to honour Mr Howard, the News Corp chairman said he was not privy to the Prime Minister's thoughts.


But asked if he agreed with comments by President Bush that Mr Howard may outlast him, Mr Murdoch hinted that the Prime Minister may choose to go sooner.


Australian Financial Review journalist Neil Chenoweth, a biographer of Mr Murdoch, said Mr Murdoch's comments were highly significant.



Chenoweth said Mr Murdoch had a record of switching his support for political leaders when he senses change was inevitable.

I must admit, if it was anyone other than Murdoch putting the skids under Howard I would be cheering. As it is, I resent rapacious media bastards pulling the political strings.

As they say in Australia, "get a dog up you Rupert!"