Bob Carr

Robert John Carr (born September 28 1947), Australian politician, was Premier of New South Wales from 25 March 1995 to 3 August 2005. He holds the record for the longest continuous service as Premier of New South Wales. Only Sir Henry Parkes has served longer, but he held the office on five separate occasions.

Premier of New South Wales

In 1995 he became Premier at another close election and won comfortably again in 1999 and 2003.

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His centrist, cautious government has been characterised by conservative financial management and the encouragement of market forces, and latterly pursued a "tough on crime" policy. Carr occasionally ventured into national policy issues, particularly issues concerning the environment and population growth. A keen bushwalker, he created numerous national parks in NSW over his decade-long term as Premier. During his term, he worked towards improving literacy standards in NSW schools.

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In August 2004, Carr faced criticism due to his alleged involvement in the Orange Grove affair, and also from the Commissioner of the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption, due to his remarks that a minister under investigation by the ICAC would be "vindicated" before the release of that body's findings on the matter; this resulted in an allegation of contempt, which was subsequently dropped.

Related Topics:
August - 2004 - Orange Grove affair - Independent Commission Against Corruption

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After 10 years as Premier, Carr announced his resignation both as Premier and as the member for Maroubra on 27 July, 2005 to be effective from 3 August. This immediately prompted speculation that the resignation was a prelude to a move into federal politics, but Carr denied this. He cited the desire to spend more time with his wife, Helena Carr, as the main motivation for his resignation. His successor as Premier is former health minister Morris Iemma. Carr's resignation triggered further resignations, namely those of Deputy Premier Andrew Refshauge and Planning Minisiter Craig Knowles.

Related Topics:
27 July - 2005 - 3 August - Helena Carr - Morris Iemma - Andrew Refshauge - Craig Knowles

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Unusually for a Labor leader, Carr has opposed Australian republicanism if it entailed public election of the President (he supported a President appointed by Parliament). He also opposes a Bill of Rights, because it would merely lead to increased litigation.

Related Topics:
Australian republicanism - Bill of Rights

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