Australian PM reshuffles cabinet

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Monday, September 29, 2003

Australian PM reshuffles cabinet

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Australian Prime Minister John Howard made a major reshuffle to his cabinet Monday in preparation for the next election, appointing controversial Immigration Minister Philip Ruddock as Attorney-General.

Ruddock is facing international criticism for his tough immigration measures, including cracking down on illegal migrants and asylum seekers.

Family and Community Services Minister Amanda Vanstone will take over Ruddock's position.

Kay Patterson has been replaced by Workplace Relations MinisterTony Abbott as Health Minister.

Patterson will take responsibility for family and community services and also become the minister assisting the prime minister for the status of women.

Communications Minister Richard Alston was also cut. Telling reporters in here, Howard said Alston would retire shortly.

Attorney-General Daryl Williams will replace Alston.

Kevin Andrews, a close allay of Howard, will become the workplace relations minister, while West Australian backbencher Julie Bishop will take on Andrews' post as minister of aging.

Local Government and Territories Minister Wilson Tuckey has lost his post and is replaced by West Australian senator Ian Campbell.

Howard said Tuckey has indicated he does not want to hold a ministerial post following the coming election.

The prime minister said this may be the last reshuffle before the next election which is due by the end of 2004. He said the changes are aimed at keeping the government fresh and effective.

"These changes will continue a process of renewal and regeneration," he said.

"They will reinforce the government's commitment to its goals for Australia of national security, economic strength and social stability."

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