John Alexander (Bennelong, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to inform colleagues of the Arthur Calwell-Robert Menzies Lunch Club. This informal group is essentially made up of members from all sides. It was inspired by the former member Martin Ferguson's valedictory speech and Tony Abbott's gracious admission of transgressions and apology on such an honourable member. What followed were tales of Prime Minister Robert Menzies and opposition leader Arthur Calwell meeting for lunch each Friday after sitting weeks to work through issues facing Australia, and the Calwell-Menzies group was formed.

To honour their bipartisan friendship, our group agreed to meet for lunch on Tuesdays during sitting weeks at the Martin Ferguson table for respectful dialogue with no politics. Recognising there is more that unites the parties and all Australians than divides them, our group is committed to improving the standard of debate in parliament and public life. As representatives we should be focused on promoting the respectful, positive and productive exchange of ideas rather than negative political discourse. If not we violate the faith of those who elected us and transgress our duties. Considering recent escalation of unproductive conflict and vitriol in this place, all members of good will should join us as we strive to heal partisan divides, strengthen relationships between all parliamentarians and make this place safe and welcoming to all.