CONDOLENCES › Morrison, Hon. William Lawrence (Bill), AO
Mr ABBOTT (Warringah—Leader of the Opposition) (14:06): I am very happy to support the fine eulogy of the Prime Minister. As the Prime Minister has noted, Bill Morrison grew up on the northern beaches of Sydney—so he had the best possible start in life. He was, I am advised, a lifelong surfer, so he should have been a man well and truly at peace with himself. Obviously he was a fine diplomat, because, I am advised, he was expelled from Moscow not just once but twice—a remarkable achievement. Perhaps the Kremlin were aware of the earlier gesture to which the Prime Minister has alluded! As a minister, Bill Morrison helped to oversee the independence of Papua New Guinea, and, after retiring from the parliament, he was a well-regarded ambassador to Indonesia. Bill Morrison was one of a number of former diplomats who have been distinguished contributors to this place. He is in the company of such as Sir Paul Hasluck and the current member for Griffith. On behalf of the coalition I extend deepest condolences to his large family. The SPEAKER: As a mark of respect, I ask all present to signify their approval of the motion by rising in their places. Honourable members having stood in their places— The SPEAKER: I thank the House.