26 Mar 2012
Australia's ruling Labor Party is reeling from a devastating loss in a state election in Queensland, increasing the pressure on Julia Gillard, the Prime Minister.
The extent of the loss – which left Labor with just seven seats, down from 51 – surprised Ms Gillard, who pledged to listen to the message from the state's electorate.
The outgoing premier, Anna Bligh, who was the first woman to win an election in Australia at state or federal level and was widely hailed for her leadership during last year's flood crisis, stepped down as leader and is resigning from parliament.
"This result is absolutely shattering for the Australian Labor Party," she said. "This is much more than a loss – it is without doubt a devastating defeat."
[ed. Another socialist government bites the dust which means....it is a beautiful day!]
