Howard plans to retire 'three years after elections'

Prime Minister John Howard today said he would retire before the end of his next three-year term in Australia if he wins elections this year.

“I would … certainly form the view well into my term that it would make sense for me to retire,” Howard, 68, told Australian Broadcasting Corporation television.

Australia’s second-longest-serving prime minister had refused to indicate when he might quit since he ruled out retirement shortly before his 64th birthday.

He is seeking election for a fifth three-year term.