In his first international interview since the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told Sky News he would not hold a referendum on whether Australia should become a republic when he takes office. first term and that it was time to show gratitude for the “Queen’s service to Australia, the Commonwealth and the world”.
The QueenThe death of reignited a debate over Australia’s relationship with the monarchy and the Australian leader has previously said the country needs an Australian head of state.
But Mister Albanian said in his view that this period was a “time to pay homage to Queen Elizabeth II” and to show “deep respect and admiration”, not to pursue “questions about our constitution”.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the Queen who he said ‘has always reached out to comfort Australians in times of need’, whether during cyclones, floods or natural disasters.
Watch Sky News live from 10am as a motorcade carries the Queen’s coffin from Balmoral to Edinburgh
Australians have said part of the success of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign has been her ability to remain politically neutral with Australia.
Mr Albanese said he was sure King Charles III was also ‘very aware of the need to stay above politics’.
Today marked the official proclamation of King Charles’ accession as King of Australia during a ceremony in the country’s capital, Canberra.
Mr Albanese will travel to London to attend the Queen’s funeral and meet the new King.
