Sonner or later this will backfire on Abbott. If Abbott is deciding on the National interest who can go on what trip or who can be away from Parliament for a day then I can just imagine retaliation where possible.
It will be a silly bun fight that will hurt both parties. For example, a situation whereby Gillard can declare there is no national interest in ANY member of the oppossition going on any trip, jointly with ALP or soley, so funds will be withdrawn.
Now, I dont know how funds are allocated for Opposition business but my point is, retaliation will occur, unfortunately.
Bullies like Abbott have to be dealt with but this could turn into a parliament PR problem all round.
