Ban on "mate" in Australian Parliament lasts a day

[chrishansenhome]

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.

Comments

[vasilatos]

Dude, you're hanging on by your fingertips! Fight the Man!
or the queen.. or something... jeez...

[mango-king.livejournal.com]

Back in the early 90s HRH was here for something or other and part of the program included touring an inner-city subsidized housing project with Hilary Clinton. One of the residents gave HRH a huge bear hug! That's not so out of the norm here, presidents are always hugging people, but boy did it cause a ruckus with the UK press covering the visit - protocol was breached!!!!