Perhaps the reporter should have asked Quote:
"You have been the Member for Grayndler for 16 years and the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport for 4 years, surely, there is a conflict of interest whereby you continue to place the interests of your local constituency ahead of the National interest."
This is the core of the problem...but what can you do about it?
With the current tight numbers situation in parliament, it's unlikely that Gillard will pull him into line as the last thing she can afford is for him ( or any other member) to lose their seat. That's why we will not receive any National infrastructure growth ... if it impinges on an ALP-held seat.
IF Gillard was serious about looking after Australia's interest, she could consider moving more portfolios to Senators ... a la Carr. Then she might be able to get some things done and not, seriously, affect sitting Members.