Anthony Albanese has named former South Australian premier Jay Weatherill as Australia’s next high commissioner to the UK.
Announcing the appointment on Monday, the Prime Minister said Mr Weatherill “is an entirely appropriate appointment” and spruiked the incoming envoy’s defence credentials.
“He served as South Australia’s 45th premier for over six years,” Mr Albanese told reporters at Parliament House.
“He championed national debate on sovereign defence capability, renewable energy targets, environmental protection issues.
“He served in the South Australian parliament for 16 years, including not just premier but treasurer, state development, education and environment ministers.
“As premier he was instrumental in establishing South Australia’s leadership in the defence industry, including in the construction of submarines.
“As a proud South Australian, as our future high commissioner, Jay is well placed to take forward AUKUS in our nation’s interests, particularly with SSN AUKUS, which we will be doing in partnership with the United Kingdom.”
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