chrishansenhome: (Default)
chrishansenhome ([personal profile] chrishansenhome) wrote2005-08-19 08:47 am

Ban on "mate" in Australian Parliament lasts a day

Heard this on the news this morning and could see the funny side of it. I've even taken up "mate" for various friends, as I'm often around Australians and others who use it (hi, Win!)

One of the great defining characteristics of an Australian is informality to everyone, great and small. I recall that a former Prime Minister (was it Bob Hawke?) put his arm around the Queen's back to steer her toward a receiving line or something. There was a furore here, as it's well known that the only part of the Queen you touch is her gloved hand.

Unless you're the Duke of Edinburgh, in which case it's your duty.
vasilatos: neighborhod emergency response (Default)

[personal profile] vasilatos 2005-08-19 12:54 am (UTC)(link)
Dude, you're hanging on by your fingertips! Fight the Man!
or the queen.. or something... jeez...