The MPs said they were open to backing Mr Costello provided his forthcoming political memoirs did not attack the record of former prime minister John Howard.
"If he dumps on Howard in the book everything changes," a senior Liberal said. "The partyroom won't accept it. But if he steers away from that he now has overwhelming support."
Same old story. The Libs don't trust Costello. And rightly so I'd say.
What are the odds of Costello dumping on Howard in the book I wonder? Let's just say I wouldn't be betting against it. The publishers will be insisting on it because that's what everyone wants to read about. Nobody wants to read "It was 11 great years. We ruled. The End"
He might try to not dump, but he wont be able to help himself. He'll come out with something that to him seems level-headed but will basically say that Howard should have stepped aside and the party-room should have backed him for the leadership, and if they have it would have prevented a Rudd victory.
As if he is not going to say this.
He has already told reporters that he is annoyed that people are supporting him now but didn't then. This is a total giveaway as to his attitude. He is vain and things he deserves to be handed power on a plate.
Power cannot be given. It must be taken.Nelson must not step aside for Costello. Everyone knows Costello hasn't got the nads to challenge him. He's all talk and no trousers.
Dr Nelson vowed yesterday that he was determined to lead his party to the 2010 federal electionWell there you have it. Nelson won't step aside. I guess this is a non-starter then, and a non-story. Just like every other time the media have got behind Costello in the past.
