Prime minister says he ‘deeply regrets’ any offence caused by him taking leave during fires, and he will return to SydneyScott Morrison has apologised for going on holiday while Australia is in the grip of an extended bushfire crisis and a record-breaking heatwave. “I deeply regret any offence caused to any of the many Australians affected by the terrible bushfires by my taking leave with family at this time,” Morrison said. The holiday – which was due to conclude on Monday – will now be cut short, with Morrison expected back in Australia on Saturday. “The Commonwealth’s responsibilities have been well managed by the Acting Prime Minister, Minister [David] Littleproud and Minister [Marise] Payne. Earlier this week his office told me reports of Scott Morrison holidaying in Hawaii were "incorrect".

Source: The Guardian December 19, 2019 21:08 UTC