Defence Minister Peter Dutton has dropped his boot into Clive Palmer twice during a cheeky radio interview.
Mr Palmer insists he is not vaccined against Covid-19.
But Mr Dutton said he would not be surprised if the mining magnate and Senate hopeful had a received “a cheeky jab or three”, in part because of his “extra kilos”.
Mr Palmer has been outspoken in his views on vaccinations.
This week, the billionaire announced he would lead the Queensland Senate ticket for the United Australia Party, which he created.
He made the announcement at Brisbanexjmtzyw’s Hyatt Regency – a venue that requires visitors to check in and be fully vaccinated – despite Mr Palmer telling reporters he was not.
But the Defence Minister said he wouldn’t be surprised if Mr Palmer had gotten jabbed in secret because he was a potential “prime candidate” to get sick from Covid.
“I’d be surprised if Clive hadn‘t had a cheeky jab on the side. I’d say he’s even had a triple jab,” Mr Dutton told 4BC radio on Thursday.
“We see Clive on TV. Clive does tick a few boxes and is possibly more vulnerable than some others.
“I’m not one to criticise a few extra kilos post-Christmas, but Clive does have a couple of kilos even on you (host Ray Hadley) and I.
“And so I would be very surprised if Clive’s doctor hadn’t said to him ‘Clive, you are a prime candidate to get very sick from Covid and you should have a vaccine’.
“And Clive might not be giving us the full picture.”
Mr Palmer has been vocal about his vaccination status for months.
“I am pro-choice. My choice is not to have the jab,” Mr Palmer told the Courier Mail in October.
“I will not give into tyranny.”
Mr Palmer has been contacted for comment.
