Turnbull claims victory in Australia elections

Sydney, July 10: Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull claimed victory in the federal election as the coalition on Sunday edged towards a slim majority in parliament. “This is a great day today (Sunday),” ABC quoted Turnbull as saying here, after Labour party leader Bill Shorten admitted defeat. “We have resolved this election and have done so peacefully. It’s something we should celebrate and not take for granted.” He said the coalition was on track to win at least 74 seats and was confident to win two more, giving it enough seats to govern in its own right in the 150-seat House of representatives — the lower chamber of the bicameral Australian parliament. Turbull welcomed Shorten’s offer to find “common ground”, saying he hoped the two sides could work together. “It’s vital that this parliament works it is vital that we work together and as far as we can try to find ways upon which we can all agree.” He flagged some changes to the ministry due to MPs losing their seats, and said the Liberal partyroom would meet on July 18. Turnbull said his granddaughter Isla was on his lap when he took Shorten’s concession call, and he was “deeply, deeply touched” by the moment. “That’s a moment I’ll never forget,” ABC quoted an emotiol Turnbull as saying. “It was a reminder that we are trustees for future generations. Everything we do is about the future.” Earlier, Shorten said although counting was still underway, it was clear that Turnbull would form the next either a minority or majority government. “I understand we need to make this parliament function and we’ll be up for that,” Shorten said. (IANS)