Australia's Queensland Art Minister resigns

Source:Xinhua Published: 2013-2-15 13:15:31

Australia's Queensland Premier Campbell Newman said on Friday he accepted the resignation of the state's Art Minister Ros Bates.

The Premier paid tribute to Bates and the contribution she has made to the portfolio.

"Unfortunately the demanding role has taken a toll personally and on her health, and she had decided not to risk those issues impacting on the performance of her duties," Newman said in a statement issued on Friday.

"I commend her for her decision. She has done the right thing by her family, her constituents, and the government."

Bates has become the third minister the premier has lost since the Newman Government came to power.

Her resignation comes after months of pressure over allegations of nepotism involving her son's government job, her contact with lobbyists, and extended absences for health reasons.

Posted in: Asia-Pacific

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