QLD:Bligh encourages Spence to stay

AAP General News (Australia)
08-27-2010
QLD:Bligh encourages Spence to stay

BRISBANE, Aug 27 AAP - Queensland Premier Anna Bligh is encouraging a long-serving
Labor state MP not to resign mid-term.

On Thursday, former police, corrective services and sport minister, Judy Spence, who
left cabinet after the 2009 election, announced she was considering quitting.

The resignation of the Sunnybank MP, who was elected in 1989 and has held cabinet roles
since 2001, would trigger a by-election, which Labor could expect to lose given current
voter unrest over the Bligh government.

On Friday morning, Ms Bligh praised Ms Spence's efforts as a parliamentary performer
and local member.

"Judy will consider this matter - that's a personal decision for herself and her family,"

the premier said.

"I would obviously like to see Judy finish her term ... but ultimately it's a decision for her."

Ms Spence is currently leader of the house and parliamentary secretary to the premier.

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KEYWORD: LABOR QLD SPENCE

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