Australian defence minister back-paddles on canoe comment


SYDNEY: Australia’s Defence Minister David Johnston Wednesday backtracked on comments in which he said a government shipbuilding firm could not be trusted to “build a canoe”, amid calls that he be sacked.

The outburst from the normally sedate minister in the Senate late Tuesday prompted demands for his dismissal from cabinet, and forced the prime minister to publicly defend the firm.

The Star 6.6 DEAL: 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.04/month

Billed as RM 9.04 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Regional

9.3 million�illicit cigarettes seized by Customs
Japan 'robot wolves' in high demand to scare off bears
Lula won’t sideline China or anyone in rare earths, tells Trump refining stays in Brazil
Asean still not ready to accept Myanmar leaders at summits, meetings, says Tok Mat
Anwar holds bilateral talks with S'pore, Laos counterparts
Asean vows to avoid export bans, share fuel as oil prices soar
China AI robot restaurant analyses diners’ faces, tongues to recommend health-focused dishes
Why China’s humanoid robots are still waiting for their ‘ChatGPT moment’
Singapore turns tide in evolving fight against scams
Africa emerges as new arena in US-China competition over artificial intelligence

Others Also Read