Karl Stefanovic’s desperate plea and heartfelt apology
Today show host Karl Stefanovic went on an incensed rant on air over the panic buying crisis currently plaguing the nation in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Today show host launched a desperate plea after wrapping up an interview with a Coles staff member who urged Australians to “be kind with each other, be patient with teams, today when you are in there, say thank you or give a nice gesture.”
“That's good advice,” Stefanovic said in response.
“I was in one (supermarket) yesterday, I was walking through the aisles, there was a mother, she had a baby in the pram and she had a toddler right on top of the baby creating all this noise and mayhem and she was looking at the shelves, she had nappies under one arm, she was looking at the empty shelves …
“You could see the desperation in her face because the stuff that she wanted wasn’t there.
Distribution centers around the country are full to the brim of toilet paper but demand levels have slowed the dispersal to supermarkets. #9Today pic.twitter.com/oLosSwYk77
— The Today Show (@TheTodayShow) March 18, 2020
“These are the sort of things people are experiencing. It is really hard.”
The emotional rant follows behind Prime Minister Scott Morrison blasting people across the country for bulk buying essential supplies.
He labelled the current issue as “one of the most disappointing things” he’d seem from Aussies in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Karl went on to say: “When the Prime Minister gets tough, they’re the sort of people who really need it, who really need to be able to just give what they can to their kids.
“It’s the most basic stuff. I really felt for her.
“When he (Mr Morrison) gets tough, I say to everyone, ‘Please bear in mind these mums who are doing their best for their kids,’ and keep all of that in mind as we move forward because it’s really important to look after people who need it most.
“Sorry about that. I just had a little rant. I'm ranting a lot. Sorry.”
Mr Morrison noted on Wednesday morning that the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee advises against bulk buying of foods, medicines and other essential goods.
“I am seeking Australia’s common sense co-operation with these very clear advisory positions. Stop doing it. It’s ridiculous. It’s un-Australian and it must stop,” the PM said.
On Monday, Australia’s four major supermarket chains, Woolworths, Coles, IGA and Aldi, joined together for a joint advertisement titled: “Working together to provide for all Australians”.
“Our suppliers and teams are doing everything possible to get as many products onto all our shelves as they can, often under very difficult circumstances,” the ad reads.
“So we ask you to please be considerate in the way you shop.”