From the Hill: Parliament learnt something about the UK's Baroness Scotland, but Rita of the Racetrack wasn't interested.
From the Hill never expected for one minute it would write a column comparing the member for West Swan, Rita Saffioti, with the Baroness Scotland of Asthal.
The former Kelmscott Senior High School dux should be so lucky to be made a life peer.
But sometimes even a speech in reply to the state budget can toss up a wee gem.
While prosecuting her case against Treasurer Saffioti’s big spending third budget, shadow treasurer Sandra Brewer took the chamber to London.
“I was fortunate to visit London to represent this parliament at the 74th Westminster seminar on effective parliaments, hosted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association,” she pointed out.
“And there was a moment that stood out to me listening to the Right Honourable the Baroness Scotland of Asthal KC, House of Lords, UK Parliament.”
Just that title had From the Hill scrambling for its Debrett’s Guide to the Ranks of Privileges of the Peerage to find out more about the Baroness.
A Labor politician, Patricia Janet Scotland, impressed Ms Brewer by talking about responsible government.
“The Baroness described a major achievement of her term, proudly sharing how she reduced public spending and improved outcomes,” the shadow treasurer explained.
“I was quite taken aback. Here was an accomplished Labor member who boasted of spending less and delivering real results.”
Well, the treasurer couldn’t wait to get to her feet.
“The shadow treasurer said if only I could be more like a baroness,” Ms Saffioti began.
“Member for Southern River, you were out doorknocking on the weekend. Did anyone mention the baroness to you?”
And soon after, Ms Saffioti was in full bogan mode talking up the V8 Supercars racetrack.
“You don’t like motor sports,” she called across the chamber to the Liberals.
You wouldn’t get that in the House of Lords.
