Australian rocker applies to join Labor despite grassroots opposition

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2004

SYDNEY, (AFP) — Peter Garrett, the former lead singer of Australian rock band Midnight Oil has applied to join the opposition Labor Party, paving the way for him to stand for a parliamentary seat later this year despite a grassroots revolt.

A Labor spokesman said application by the bald-headed former front man for rock band Midnight Oil would be considered by party chiefs Friday, along with his bid to stand for the safe Labor seat of Kingsford-Smith in Sydney.

He said Garrett's application was supported by an urgent letter of endorsement from Labor leader Mark Latham.

Labor members in Kingsford-Smith said they did not want Garrett to represent them at a heated branch meeting Tuesday night, claiming the party hierarchy was riding roughshod over their wish for...