Ted O'Brien (Fairfax, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

We in this House are all federal MPs, but in our houses and homes we are all mums and dads—at least a lot of us are. I should acknowledge that we're doing a pretty good job as mums and dads, and I acknowledge the members for Higgins, Hotham and Adelaide, who this very year have brought new life into this world. Also, dads deserve a bit of recognition. The member for Mitchell, the member for Canning and the member for Deakin have also all had children this year. Also, the member for Berowra's wife is pregnant, as is mine.

I have a serious thing to say about this. As much as each and every one of us loves our children, so too did Bruce and Denise Morcombe love their child, Daniel, who in 2003, at the age of only 13, was abducted and murdered—and they've given their lives to education ever since. Tomorrow, I walk with the Morcombes for Day for Daniel. I carry a message from the Prime Minister, and, with the blessing of this House, I would also like to carry your best wishes to the entire Morcombe family.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members' statements has concluded.