STATEMENT TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

STATEMENT ON INDULGENCE

TUESDAY, 25 MARCH 2014

I rise to associate the Opposition with the remarks of the Prime Minister. Our thoughts today are with all the families and friends of the passengers and crew of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370. The pain of not knowing what has happened to one's family has now given way to the agony of loss.

 

We too offer our sympathies to all of those whose worst fears have been realised. These matters are never easy to deal with, but to have to wear a very public loss when perhaps you would seek to mourn in peace and privacy has also been very difficult.

 

The disappearance of MH370 is a mystery that has captured global attention.

 

Unlike perhaps some disasters which occur around the world, because all of the citizens of the world fly, this disaster is one that touches all of us.

 

Australia can be rightly proud of the leading effort it has played in the international search effort—our service men and women have taken on an extremely difficult task with determination and dedication.

 

This search has brought nations together. Australia is proud of the Australian contribution, and I believe the world is grateful to them. We may never know the full story of MH370, but we do know that there will be families consumed by grief today and in the years to come. Our hearts go out to them.
ENDS

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