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Australia PM defends criticisms over Qantas flight upgrades

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday safeguarded complimentary flight upgrades he received from Qantas following claims he had actually communicated directly with the nationwide provider's previous CEO to get him bumped approximately service class.

Albanese made a number of direct call to former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce before ending up being prime minister, and got his tickets upgraded on 22 flights in between 2009 and 2019, Australian media reported, citing excerpts in a brand-new book by reporter Joe Aston.

Albanese, who was the federal transport minister from 2007 to 2013, downplayed the claims, saying he had actually declared all flight upgrades he received.

I have actually been completely transparent about this. All of my flights have actually been declared in an appropriate way, Albanese told press reporters.

In my time in public life, I have actually acted with integrity, I. have actually acted in a way that is completely appropriate and I have. stated in accordance with the rules.

Albanese stated he held just main talks with Joyce, adding. some upgrades he received were spent for by the Labor celebration.

Australian political leaders getting free upgrades on flights is. not rare though they are required to state such presents and many. are offered subscription to luxury lounges.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton said on Monday it would be a. strange plan if Albanese, while managing the transportation. ministry, could straight get in touch with Qantas looking for ticket upgrades.

I'm not aware of anyone else having actually done it, Dutton said. during a media briefing.

Qantas did not right away react to a Reuters demand. seeking comments.

In 2015, the Albanese-led centre-left Labor government. faced claims of favouring Qantas by blocking demands by. Qatar Airways to increase its flights to Australia.

The federal government stated intrusive body searches of woman. passengers, consisting of 5 Australian females, at Qatar's airport. in 2020 was an aspect, and Albanese informed parliament he got. no lobbying from Qantas.

The claims come as Albanese fights with low voter. approval ratings amid greater living costs and home loan rates.

A Newspoll study conducted for The Australian newspaper. this month showed Australia's opposition Liberal-National. coalition pulling ahead of the Labor government for the first. time given that the May 2022 election, while Albanese's rankings fell. to the lowest levels.

(source: Reuters)