WILL BELL GET THE CALL UP?
SCO-MO URGED TO REWARD QLD
THE Gold Coast’s newest federal MP is on track to get an immediate elevation to the Morrison Government’s ranks.
Incoming Moncrieff MP Angie Bell is being talked up as a chance for an outer ministry role in the wake of the Coalition’s victory against expectations at the weekend.
Senior LNP figures say Ms Bell is being eyed off for the Assistant Tourism Minister post.
If tapped by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Ms Bell would join fellow Gold Coast MPs Karen Andrews and Stuart Robert in the ministry ranks.
“Angie is seen as a strong performer who ran a good campaign,” a party figure told the Bulletin last night.
“Queensland and the Gold Coast delivered for Scott and we could get some of the reward.
“Giving her the junior tourism portfolio would show the
government is serious about tourism.”
Ms Bell last night did not comment on whether she hoped to secure a ministry role but she did say: “Appointments are made by the Prime Minister and I will serve in an LNP Government in whatever capacity the Prime Minister determines.
“I am humbled by the support shown to me by the residents of Moncrieff. I will work hard every day to represent them locally and in federal parliament.”
Mr Morrison is expected to name his own Cabinet in the coming days.
Mr Robert, a close friend and former Canberra flatmate of the Prime Minister, is expected to continue in his role as Assistant Treasurer.
Ms Andrews, who sits in Cabinet as Science Minister, is also expected to remain.
Bert van Manen, who had a stunning win in what had been tipped as a tight contest for Forde, is understood to be looking at a junior portfolio.