Tim Wilson (Goldstein, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

On indulgence, it's my privilege to be able to rise and speak to honour the life of service of Senator John McCain, the true heir to the conscience of a conservative. Many will be able to easily recount his biography and time of service in the defence forces and in politics. Today I simply offer my own short personal reflections. I have always thought it was a great tragedy that in 2000 he was not the Republican candidate to be President of the United States. His reputation preceded him. His legacy and honour of service to his country was something that most candidates for political office could only dream of not just because of its capacity to add to electoral success but because it showed a window into his character. He understood that when much is given, much is expected. Much was expected of him. I believe the world has always been worse off because of the scurrilous rumours and dirty campaigning which derailed his bid for that office, so much so that in 2000—

A division having been called in the House of Representatives—

Sitting suspended from 18:17 to 18 : 30

See this speech in context