It may be of some interest to those who do not follow politics and politicians as closely as Andrew Fuller in NDL, September 29, to highlight some of his valid and thoughtful words regarding Tony Windsor.
Based on the merits of each party’s proposal, independents realised the best outcomes for the nation and their respective electorates and accordingly made their decision. They did not want the expense and upheaval of another election and, since the Labor Party won the most seats, that party won the independents’ support.
Tony Windsor’s policy platform, which he took to the election and won with 61 per cent primary vote and five per cent swing, contained policies (check Andrew Fuller’s letter) which the Labor Party indicated it would support.
Whilst the government has faced much adversity – example the constant malign negativism of Tony Abbott – and has made mistakes, it has nevertheless delivered upward of 300 pieces of legislation.
Media has not reported on a number of bills, which were passed with bipartisan support.
Andrew Fuller writes: “Tony Windsor has served the New England electorate, his state and his nation by delivering much needed policies that bridge the divide between city and country
providing opportunities for all Australians”.
I concur that Windsor has stuck to his principles with patience and dignity even when at one point his wife and family were verbally abused. He has brought plain commonsense and courage into Parliament when he faced Tony Abbott with truth.
My hope is that he decides to stand again, because our region does not often offer a statesman-like politician such as Tony Windsor.