Australia’s Governor General Blasted For Death Wish For Queen Elizabeth On Platinum Jubilee

Australia's Governor-General David Hurley has been backlashed for his "disrespectful" comments during the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

Reporters asked Hurley about the possibility of Australia becoming a republic while he was in the United Kingdom for the Jubilee celebrations. He responded, saying that the Queen had lots of "emotional support" from Australians, then claimed that could change under the reign of a new monarch. "I think at the moment people center on the Queen, and then when she goes, when she passes, then the succession comes in, there's a new discussion in Australia."

Australians have blasted the Governor General's comments. The 2GB broadcaster Ben Fordham commented, "When she goes? It's her big celebration," Fordham said on Monday. "Imagine going to someone's anniversary or birthday party and saying 'now listen, when she's gone.' We don't talk about that now. You're over there representing Australia and it hasn't gone down well I can tell you."

Several listeners of Fordham also expressed dismay at Governor-General Hurley's "disrespectful" remarks. "While he may be correct, it was a bizarre comment to be making during this very important celebration. We shouldn't be talking about the Queen passing away when she's well and truly alive."

It comes after Matt Thistlethwaite was appointed as Republic Assistant Minister, speculation that Australia could become a republic and transition away from the monarchy under the new Labor Government emerged.

Thistlethwaite also seemed to suggest that a republic could come after Queen Elizabeth's death. Thistlethwaite said, "As she comes to the twilight of her reign, I think Australians are naturally beginning to ask themselves what comes next for Australia. Do we want King Charles or are we mature enough or independent enough to look to appoint one of our own as our head of state."

Fordham also addressed the issue about Thistlethwaite's comments, firmly claiming that now was not the time to mention and talk about a republic or even the Queen's successor. He pointed out that the focus must be on the good things, the celebration, Queen's achievement, and record. "There is no King Charles, there is Queen Elizabeth II. This a very important celebration and we are a part of that celebration. The timing is appalling."