bush to savour sydney and side-step election debate

US President George Bush has told of his excitement about visiting "beautiful" Sydney - and dodged suggestions ally John Howard could be defeated at the coming election - in an interview with Sky News today.

"I'm looking forward to coming to one of the most beautiful cities in the world," he said.

"(Australia is) a country I admire a lot and it important we continue to have a great relationship.

"I'm looking forward to the beautiful city and to the extent I inconvenience (Sydneysiders), I apologise."

Bush To Savour Sydney & Side-Step Election Debate