QLD: Sheldon to return to Libs front bench

AAP General News (Australia)
02-16-2000
QLD: Sheldon to return to Libs front bench

BRISBANE, Feb 16 AAP - Former Queensland Deputy Premier Joan Sheldon will return to
the Liberal Party frontbench today.

Party leader David Watson last night sacked frontbencher Bruce Davidson who publicly
criticised the Liberal's dismal performance in the recent Woodridge and Bundamba by-elections.

Dr Watson said the Noosa MP should have kept his comments to the party room.

But the change had opened the way for Mrs Sheldon to return to the frontbench, he said.

Mrs Sheldon stepped down as party leader after the Borbidge-Sheldon coalition was defeated
by Peter Beattie's Labor team 18 months ago.

Dr Watson said today Mrs Sheldon would be offered the role as opposition spokesman
on fair trading, community affairs and the arts.

"Joan was a very successful Arts Minister before," Dr Watson said.

"She has a lot of experience and will give the frontbench more oomph, and I'm delighted
she's willing to come back," he said.

AAP geb/arb

KEYWORD: LIBERALS QLD SECOND DAYLEAD

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