Advertisement

Parliament pays tribute to Prince Philip

PM says Duke of Edinburgh's unfaltering support of the Queen was an ideal model for a lifetime of service.

PM says Duke of Edinburgh's unfaltering support of the Queen was an ideal model for a lifetime of service. Photo: ABC/Reuters/ Yui Mok

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has led tributes to Prince Philip in the first sitting of federal parliament since the Duke of Edinburgh died.

Mr Morrison addressed Queen Elizabeth II directly during the condolence motion in Canberra on Tuesday, expressing deep sorrow on behalf of Australia.

“On behalf of the Australian people, we express deep sympathy to your majesty and other members of the royal family, and give thanks for a remarkable life dedicated to service, duty, support and his family,” he said.

The prime minister said Prince Philip served the Crown, his country and the Commonwealth for almost 80 years.

“He was part of a generation that we will never see again,” Mr Morrison said.

“A generation who defied tyranny, who won a peace, and built a liberal world that protects and favours freedom.

“A generation who found meaning in service over self and to whom we owe so much.”

Mr Morrison said the Duke of Edinburgh’s unfaltering support of the Queen was an ideal model for a lifetime of service.

He said the role of royal consort was one without a rule book.

“It was a role that required another to shine, not him,” the prime minister said.

“Prince Philip put his own unique stamp on the role with geniality, good humour, a genuine interest in others and a fair dinkum authenticity.”

prince-philip

Buckingham Palace shared this photo of the couple at one of their ‘happy places’. Photo: AAP

Mr Morrison described the prince as a genuine friend of Australia.

“Today we place on record our gratitude for his lifetime of service to the Crown, to our Commonwealth and to our country,” he said.

“We honour indeed a remarkable life that bore witness to almost a hundred years of history and the making of our modern world.”

Mr Morrison said the image of the Queen seated alone at her husband’s funeral was a very sullen sight.

“Let us, her Commonwealth, be her strength and her stay,” he said.

“To her majesty, we send Australia’s love and respect and to his royal highness, may he rest in peace.”

Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese offered condolences on behalf of the Australian Labor Party, with other politicians also taking the opportunity to pay their respects.

-AAP

Stay informed, daily
A FREE subscription to The New Daily arrives every morning and evening.
The New Daily is a trusted source of national news and information and is provided free for all Australians. Read our editorial charter
Copyright © 2024 The New Daily.
All rights reserved.