Christopher Pyne’s farewell speech provokes tears and laughter

‘To the chagrin of a few and the joy of many, I am retiring from the Australian parliament,’ Christopher Pyne said playfully during his final speech after more than a quarter century in federal politics. As defence minster and leader of the house, Pyne said he will miss ‘the stage of the dispatch box’, an outlet for ’amateur thespianism’. The member for Sturt said his privileged life had driven him ‘to give others the same opportunity’. But he quickly switched tone: ’I do not have a log cabin story like so many people in this place - but I once did have to get my own lemon for a gin and tonic,’ he said to uproarious laughter from the chamber. Fighting back tears Pyne concluded, ’I’ve relished the opportunity - thank you, goodbye and good luck'

The Guardian YouTube network:

[perdbeer]

After more than two decades the contest for sexiest female politician will be competitive again.

[theresagwhite]

2:09 Check out Tony Abbott's expression.

[jackgray]

The only half decent liberal party politician is gone.

[peterparsons]

Why oh why wasn't he the prime minister. I think Australia would have been in a much better place than it is today. Thank you for your service, Christopher Pyne.

[digbonzcottell]

Sonja Baram is likely to win the electorate of Sturt and she will become the Manager of Opposition Business or Leader of the House.

[forever]

Pretty pathetic to ruin his legacy of the the Subs too his state. Over a factional dispute. But thank you anyway Mr Pyne.

[herbzhou]

Christpher, how much kickbacks did you get from the submarine deal?

[FUNKSTER]

What about the Submarines?
Yeah great job !

[herbzhou]

Christpher, how much super did you get from the submarine deal?