Labor backbencher threatens to snub US President

"Federal Opposition leader Simon Crean has moved to stop at least one Labor backbencher from snubbing George W Bush during his speech to a joint sitting of parliament later this month.

But Tasmanian MP Harry Quick says he may still turn his back while the US leader delivers his address.

Earlier, Mr Quick said about 16 politicians from the ALP and other parties were planning a protest against the US President.

"During his speech, a group of us will stand with our white arm bands on and we will publicly turn our backs on the President of the United States of America," he said.

Mr Crean says he has since told Mr Quick such behaviour would be highly disrespectful."

Harry was one of the ALP's most vocal opponents of the deceitful Iraq crusade. Now's the time to tuck your conscience in your old kitbag Harry. That's what party discipline democracy is all about Harry. I think the phrase that has been become popular by the back-fillers of recent history is what Harry needs to keep in mind ... "move on".

While Simon (AKA "Mr. 17%") might view Harry's threat as disrespectful, Simon's move can be viewed as yet another classic "don't frighten the horses" driven response. Weak as piss!

People might be amused to know that this joint sitting is being organised during the Pollies school hols. A bucket full of our taxes is being put to good use to recall Parliament so as to allow Little Johnny to give his brown nose a spot of exercise around the nether regions of Australia's de facto Commander of Chief.

But when President Schwatzerzenegergerer is invited to address the Parliament of the 51st state of mind ... that will be an entirely different matter. I'll be up there in the front stalls waving Old Glory with unrestrained enthusiasm. Of course by that time I will be dirty dancing with Ms. Altzheimers.