Billionaire federal MP Clive Palmer could call in sick for his first week of parliament after coming down with a cold.
The eccentric mining magnate failed to front for a scheduled interview with Network Ten's Meet The Press on Sunday morning.
When contacted by AAP for the reason behind his no-show, an ill-sounding Mr Palmer advised he had a cold.
Mr Palmer said he couldn't guarantee he would be in Canberra for his first day of federal parliament on Tuesday, saying he would see a doctor in the meantime.
Asked if he intended to attend every day of parliament over the coming weeks, Mr Palmer replied: "I'll meet my requirements".
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Late last month Mr Palmer won the Sunshine Coast seat of Fairfax after a recount with a final margin of 53 votes, almost eight weeks after the federal election.
New MPs are due to be sworn in at 10.55 (AEDT) on Tuesday.
