so can't comment there, this will do. I j u s t c a n n o t s t o m a c h t h i s m a n. http://www.smh.com.au/national/the-man- ... -popf.html
The man too busy to meet the nation's most powerful woman
PHILLIP COOREY CHIEF POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT
March 6, 2010
YOUR place or mine? That's the question vexing two of Canberra's most senior politicians as they try to end an almost year-long political impasse affecting tens of thousands of university students.
Julia Gillard wants an urgent meeting to discuss proposed changes to the youth allowance with Christopher Pyne, the Coalition's education spokesman and manager of opposition business. She wants an early morning meeting on Monday, the day before Parliament resumes.
But Mr Pyne says he is so busy that he cannot meet Ms Gillard until Tuesday afternoon. And he insists the meeting be held in his office.
In letters obtained by the Herald following inquiries, Mr Pyne replies that he and the relevant senator, Brett Mason, would be happy to meet on either Tuesday or Wednesday, between 5.30 and 6.30pm.
''You would be aware that as manager of opposition business it is critical to be in close proximity to the chamber during sittings, so it would be my pleasure to host the meeting in my office,'' Mr Pyne says.
Ms Gillard was clearly unimpressed with pettiness. In a sarcasm-laden response (see above), she writes: ''On the question of meeting time, even with the workload and responsibilities associated with being Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Education, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations and Minister for Social Inclusion, I am happy to make myself available on Monday or on Tuesday morning.''
She also reminds Mr Pyne that she, when in opposition, did his job and is well aware of its demands. ''I ask you to consider once again making yourself available. I am familiar with the workload associated with being a shadow cabinet member and manager of opposition business,'' she says. ''I certainly was able to manage that workload and also attend important meetings associated with my shadow ministerial responsibilities.''
On Thursday, Mr Pyne replied, saying Tuesday evening was the earliest he could meet.
''If this is acceptable, please advise my staff. I look forward to meeting you in my office.''
Hinging on the legislation's passage are 150,000 student scholarships and increased or new allowances for another 100,000.
