ALP Rethinks Iraq Policy

The ALP is softening its stand over Iraq. One can surmise that Labor's internal polling is showing this issue holds a substantial degree of danger to their re-election chances.

The first move, announced this morning, is that Kim Beazley is rejoining the shadow front bench.

Opposition leader Mark Latham today announced Mr Beazley would return from the backbenches to become the party's new defence spokesman.

Beazley is a strong supporter of the US alliance and is regarded as one of the better Defence Ministers of the recent era. During his time, Beazley forged close connections with the US defence administration, and his appointment will strengthen the perception that Labor is not about to tear up the ANZUS treaty if they regain office.

The second move, announced tonight, is a commitment to help rebuild Iraq but not provide any more troops.

In a major foreign policy speech, Mr Latham said the ALP would leave security for Australia's diplomatic mission in Baghdad, and would leave Australian warships and RAAF Orion aircraft in the Persian Gulf.

But the remainder of Australia's 850 personnel in Iraq would be brought home by the end of the year.

In their place, Mr Latham promised to send customs officers, health workers and administrative staff to help the new Iraqi administration secure its borders and improve its health system.

This is a common sense policy move by the ALP. In addition to providing sensible humanitarian aid to Iraq, it largely negates Labor's Iraq policy from being an election issue. I'm guessing that this will neutralise Howard's oft used statement that Australians aren't 'quitters.'

Seems like the government doesn't like this development ...

"It still seems to be a policy of cutting and running," Defence Minister Robert Hill said.

It will be harder to convince the electorate of this after tonight.