Ryan criticises Labor rebate plan as Frydenberg return speculated

Independent MP Monique Ryan has criticised Labor's bid to reduce private health insurance rebates for people aged over 65, saying the government is continually on the 'back foot'. She spoke about Labor's difficult sitting week and speculation about a possible return to politics by former treasurer Josh Frydenberg.

Ryan, the member for Kooyong, was interviewed by political editor Tom McIlroy for The Guardian's Australian Politics podcast published on October 16. The Guardian In the sitting week leading to October 16, Labor struggled to pass the budget saving measure to reduce the rebate for over-65s. Ryan has been a vocal critic of the bill.

The rebate lowers the premium paid for private cover. Under the current arrangement, people aged 65 and over with private health insurance receive a bigger rebate than younger people. ABC News Ryan has called on the Senate crossbench, the independents and minor-party senators, to block the cuts. The Australian

Frydenberg was treasurer in the Morrison government and is a former political rival of Ryan. He launched his memoir titled A Grateful Son in the week leading to October 16 amid speculation he is considering a possible return to Canberra. The Sydney Morning Herald

Angus Taylor said he would welcome his former colleague Frydenberg back to the Liberals if he were to contest a seat at the next federal election. ABC News