Former PM Bob Hawke in hospital
Former prime minister Bob Hawke is undergoing “minor tests” and is keen to get home to his “cigar and crosswords” after being rushed to Royal North Shore Hospital.
“Hawkie is fine and anxious to get home and back to his cigar and crosswords”, a source close to the family said after the former Labor leader’s admission to hospital late on Monday.
The 88-year-old is undergoing “minor” tests, according to a Labor spokesman.
“I can confirm on background that Bob is fine,” the spokesman said in a statement.
“(He’s) Just in hospital for some minor tests, nothing serious.”
The former ALP leader served as Australia’s 23rd prime minister from 1983-1991 and led Labor to four consecutive election victories.
Mr Hawke’s place in the Labor pantheon was formally acknowledged in 2009 when he became only the third person to be awarded national life membership of the party.
