EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW:

Brisbane-based News Crap Australia columnist Peter Gleeson is on leave following accusations of plagiarism being levelled against him. The Bug secured this exclusive interview with him as he waits for a decision by Courier-Mail editor Chris Jones and Sky News chief executive Paul “Boris” Whittaker on his future.

The Bug: Thanks for agreeing to this interview Peter. May I call you Peter?

PG: Call me Ishmael.

The Bug: I’ll stick with Peter. So, what has the last week been like, having your professional conduct questioned?

PG: It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was …..

The Bug: Plagiarism is the worst accusation that can be thrown at someone in your position. Did you ever dream such a charge would ever be levelled against you?

PG: I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream ….

The Bug: I think I can see where this is going. Maybe we should end this interview now.

PG: Now, this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.

The Bug: Indeed. But getting back to the central issue, do you think it was just something that happened unconsciously?

PG: Plagiarism is the worst accusation that can be thrown at someone in your position. Did you ever dream such a charge would ever be levelled against you?

The Bug: Yes, I just said that myself.

PG: Indeed. But getting back to the central issue, do you think it was just something that happened unconsciously?

The Bug: Oh dear. This is worrying and confusing.  

PG: Oh dear. This is worrying and confusing. I think I can see where this is going. Maybe we should end this interview now.

The Bug: Yes, I just said that myself

PG: Yes, I just said that myself

The Bug: Thanks for your time Peter.

PG: Thanks for your time Peter.