FED:Latham confronts Gillard

AAP General News (Australia)
08-07-2010
FED:Latham confronts Gillard

CANBERRA, Aug 7 AAP - After following her for much of the day, former Labor leader-turned-journalist
Mark Latham has clashed with Prime Minister Julia Gillard on the campaign trail.

The confrontation occurred as Ms Gillard was doing the rounds and meeting patrons at
Brisbane's Ekka show on Saturday.

Mr Latham, who is producing a segment for the Nine Network's 60 Minutes program, approached

Ms Gillard and asked why Labor had complained to the network about his presence.

A smiling Ms Gillard responded: "I don't know anything about that, Mark.

"If you want to work for Channel Nine, that's a matter for you."

Mr Latham then suggested his one-time Labor ally speak out against former prime minister
Kevin Rudd for trying to sabotage her campaign.

"Have a dig at him," he told her.

But Ms Gillard merely laughed and wished him well with his journalistic endeavours.

An ALP spokesman later denied the party had made any complaint to the Nine Network.

The Nine Network had not responded to inquiries as to whether a complaint was made.

Mr Latham's appearance with the press pack has caused a stir, with curious journalists
peppering him with questions during an impromptu media conference earlier on Saturday.

The former Labor leader was reluctant to answer the questions, telling them they would
have to wait to see his story when it goes to air.

AAP cj/was

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