GILLARD SNATCHES VICTORY
Picture: Gary Ramage
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/
Labor will have a two-seat majority, 76 to 74 for the Coalition.
Tony Abbott (Misterabbit, according to the PM) of the Liberals/Coalition has promised to hold the returned Labor government "ferociously to account".
Sour grapes.
The best thing to come out is Parliamentary Reform which will have the following points (note the similarity to some of our system (although the independent Speaker is a new twist):
- Speaker independent of government and deputy speaker drawn from other side. Both to abstain from party room meetings- Recognition of traditional owners of the land, to come before prayers each sitting day (this means the Aborigines)
- Time limits for questions and answers in question time (Comment - Question Time had turned into personal attacks on each other)
- More time for individual MPs' speeches
- More time for private members' bills (they were being ignored by the party machines)
- Tighter focus for parliamentary committees
- More sitting days for parliament
- Parliamentary budget office (just like the Congressional Budget Office)
- Parliamentary integrity commissioner (WHAT?)
- Formal code of conduct for MPs and senators (WHAT? WHAT?)
- Register of lobbyists to go online
- Changes to electoral funding and political advertising ($1000 limit on personal contributions)
The bet is as soon as the rural Independents think that the commitments aren't being honored, they will drop out and a new election will be called - as soon as a year from now.
In Other News: Crocodile Dundee is released
Paul Hogan came to an understanding with the tax service - he posted a bond to allow him to return to the United States. But he had the last laugh by departing Australia in "disguise":
AlexandrAussies...
ReplyDeleteNo posts in quite some time. We need a fix! Leslie and I just took a little time to get caught-up with your last few batches of posts.
Good election analysis. What's your current assessment?
Paul Hogan in disguise? I was certain that was Chuck.
Does Deb's radio station transmit readings to Roo collars so they, too, can keep current?
Enjoyed the backyard bird pics, but especially amusing/interesting was the RooTracker (TM) story.
A unanimous vote among your friends and family has endorsed a plan for both of you to wear tracking collars with live video and audio capabilities so we may look in on your adventures, escapades and conduct at any time. It is to be known as IduTrak (TM) -- pronounced EYE DO TRACK -- and stands for Ikins Down Under Tracker. Even more timely than blog posts, it will also provide opportunity to perfect on-air skills needed for your new daily show on OWN...the Oprah Winfrey Network. We cannot wait for your premier! We're hoping it will feature Charles wrestling a Roo as Deb provides live commentary and ringside encouragement.
LiveStrong, Mates...
...B & L