Whitlam Turns 80
Press Release by the Prime Minister, The Hon. John Howard,
MP
July 11, 1996
Gough Whitlam celebrates his eightieth birthday today. All Australians
will wish him well.
Whatever one's politics may be, it must be acknowledged that Gough
Whitlam has been a colourful, forceful and influential figure
in the affairs of our nation for many years.
His success in leading the Labor Party to victory after 23 years
of Coalition Government was, of course, his greatest political
achievement.
Despite our political differences, I have long had a warm personal
regard for Gough Whitlam. His company, and that of his wife, Margaret,
is always enjoyable, lively and, of course, from time to time
provocative.
Janette and I wish him and his family a very happy celebration
on such a milestone.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|