A snapshot of today’s politics and parliament

from above I did not for one minute expect the member for West Swan to write a column comparing Rita Saffioti to the Baroness of Asthal Scotland.

The former Kelmscott High dux must be so lucky to have her as his life partner.

But sometimes even a speech in response to the state budget can reveal a little gem.

Shadow treasurer Sandra Brewer took the council to London as the Chancellor of the Exchequer made her case against Saffioti’s big-spending third budget.

“I had the opportunity to visit London to represent this parliament at the 74th Westminster seminar on effective parliaments, hosted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association,” he said.

“And there was a moment that stood out to me when the House of Lords, the UK Parliament, was listening to the Honorable Baroness of Asthal KC Scotland.”

There was only this title from above He scrambles to find Debrett’s Guide to the Ranks of Noble Privileges to learn more about the Baroness.

Labor politician Patricia Janet Scotland impressed Ms Brewer by talking about responsible government.

“The Baroness described a great achievement of her time, proudly sharing how she had reduced public spending and improved outcomes,” the shadow treasurer explained.

“I was quite surprised. Here was a successful Labor member who boasted about spending less and getting real results.”

The treasurer couldn’t wait to get up.

“The shadow treasurer said she wished she could be more like a baroness,” Ms. Saffioti began.

“Member for Southern River, you were knocking on the door at the weekend. Did anyone mention the Baroness to you?”

And soon Ms. Saffioti was in full gab mode as she talked about the V8 Supercars racetrack.

“You don’t like motorsport,” he shouted to the Liberals across the room.

You won’t see that in the House of Lords.