Statement

02 February 2013

I acknowledge the decisions of Senator Chris Evans and Attorney-General Nicola Roxon to stand down from the front bench.
I thank Chris for the commitment and leadership he has shown as Minister and as Leader of the Government in the Senate.
I particularly want to thank him for his personal support and friendship. Chris is a trusted friend and mentor, a person of strong values and a true Labor man.
Nicola Roxon has had an impressive parliamentary career, culminating as Australia's first female Attorney-General.
She is one of Labor's most senior women and the reforms she has achieved, both in this portfolio and previously as Minister for Health, have been tremendous.
Chris and Nicola have been valued Cabinet colleagues, and respected members of the Caucus. I pay tribute to their contributions to the Labor cause and wish them well for the future.