The government and Labor have come to terms on Chafta. The former treasurer Joe Hockey calls time on a 20-year political career as his replacement,Scott Morrison, unveils a new offer on family benefits reform. All the developments from Canberra, or live 1.45am BSTMalcolm Turnbull,paying tribute.
This is a tremendous day in the life of a tremendous man. One of the giants of the parliament is taking his leave and all of us rose together and applauded him because we admire you, Joe, and we savor you,you have made an immense contribution over nearly 20 years.
This is no ordinary day. You are no ordinary Joe.
It is an unusual day. People leave this position, some remark that it’s actually easier to bag here than to leave. But it isn’t always easy to leave at your timing and with the mutual respect of the people who serve here. The standing ovation spontaneously from your colleagues and the opposition should be one of the memories you cherish here because you can’t bag that by just turning up, or you can’t bag that sort of respect,respect can’t be given by a position or a title, it can’t be given by longevity alone. 1.40am BSTContinue reading...
Source: theguardian.com