Poirot I read that Twitter comment and agreed. I could not believe Abbott's cruelty when he used the phrase 'died in shame' in reference to another matter. This more than anything reflects the sort of character (or lack of) in his insipid admonishment of Alan Jones. Whether one argues about what one says in private functions (a furphy) for Abbott to come out and pointedley use that phrase was a low act.

But that sadly is what has become of politics today and the fact the Coalition cannot get over the choice by Greens and independents to support an ALP government.

SM,

The thing I find interesting is that Jones' comments drew such a broad and visceral public censure. When all is said and done, he overstepped the mark of acceptable political diatribe.

There's a dividing line in the minds of people, where politics ends and personal grief begins. There are some circumstances that are sacrosanct, and anyone with an ounce of humility and common sense would resist the temptation to make political mileage out of them. Mr Jones, resplendent in his lofty castle, decided that that particular parameter didn't apply to him.

If I wanted to draw a poetic parallel, I might be tempted to post a link to one of Shelley's greatest:

In fact, I think I will : )

http://www.online-literature.com/shelley_percy/672/

SM.

In answer to your broader argument on Jones, I couldn't do any better than Alan Austin's article today:

http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=14210

Poirot I hangs me head in shame.
It is my fault, I am so sorry.
You remember when mum wanted to tell another kid the stop doing that?
I do, she would shout at me!
SM does not want to talk to me, so he unloads on you, I am sorry.
No REAL MAN not me for sure, can but say, it matters not what others say/do/said ALAN JONES ACTS, YES OVER A DECADE OF WOMAN HATING.
Are very low and not, without a true I am sorry, ever to be forgiven.
Every human, gets it wrong.
We are better for knowing that.
And as I have had to [ I once used foul words not knowing a female boss had hidden in a mass meeting crowd]say sorry, not just lip service but take ownership of the event.
A growing learning thing.
Some, AJ Abbott are never going to man up.
They are lessor for it, no Prime Minister in our history has been so badly treated.
It IS dishonest to try to cover that up.
SM in the end honestly, you have my pity if you can not see truth.

pelican,

Gloves are off now. It's anything goes. Listen to Abbott's original speech in parliament after the death of Julia's father.

'Opposition Leader Tony Abbott welcomed Ms Gillard back to parliament on behalf of the coalition and all members of parliament.

"This is a tragic time for her and we all feel for her at this very difficult and sad time,".

Mr Gillard had done Australia proud in producing a remarkable daughter, Mr Abbott said.

"It is a remarkable parent who produces a prime minister of this country." '

Then next thing, days after that speech, Labor attack dogs are trying to link him to Jones' comments. He IS NOT responsible for that.

There is definitely fault on both sides.

I really have no time for the leftie high and mighty 'Abbott's bringing the tone down' crap.

The left are starting the whole gender war thing too by bringing out the misogynist line. People should be allowed to be against abortion , based on their faith, they should be allowed to agree with traditional gender roles if they and their partner are happy to live that way, they should be able to tell their daughters (he doesn't have sons!) whatever moral values they want, these things are NOT evidence of misogyny.

You've also got this BS about standing in front of signs, well I've seen a picture of Alan Jones standing in front of a sign with the word 'Count' and he's blocking the o. It happens! Look this is all the CIRCUMSTANTIAL evidence always used against the guy; What Jones says, standing in front of signs, having a traditional gender role type marriage, being religious. These things have nothing to do with hating women!

I cant stand him but it really is getting a bit much. Sure it was a defensive political ploy to have his wife vouch for him, but why should he have to be defending his religion and personal relationships any more than Julia should have to be defending sleeping with married men or being 'barren'.

Some can dish it out but like typical bullies, can't take it.