Julia Gillard's collapse in authority

While there may be no discernible change in the way they deal with the Prime Minister, her lame-duck status within her own party is now apparent to all.

One of the worst aspects of Bob Carr's behaviour is that he was wrong on this issue.

The vote to change the status of the Palestinian territories is more likely to prolong the conflict and will not lead to a resolution.

It will encourage the Palestinian side to seek redress through the international courts rather than through meaningful negotiations based on a recognition of Israel's right to exist.

The Coalition has been consistent in supporting the right of the Israeli and Palestinian peoples to live peacefully and safely within internationally recognised borders.

The path to peace is not assisted by Labor's compromised decision to abstain on the vote