Gough Whitlam's 1972 election victory was his greatest achievement and his wit, eloquence and prodigious recall gave him easy mastery of the parliament, former Liberal prime minister John Howard says.
Mr Howard, who entered politics in 1974 while Mr Whitlam was prime minister, said the Labor leader made a lasting impact on Australian politics.
Mr Whitlam believed that an activist and interventionist national government was always the appropriate response to Australia's challenges, he said.
"Gough Whitlam brought to public life high intelligence, a commanding presence and a strong belief that government intervention could solve most of society's problems."
"His ready wit, eloquence and prodigious recall gave him an easy mastery of the parliamentary arena."
Mr Howard said Mr Whitlam's passion for foreign affairs was obvious.
His decision in opposition to recognise the communist administration in Beijing as the legitimate government of China was ahead of its time and wrongfooted the then coalition government.
"Through a long life, Gough Whitlam was sustained by a strong constitution, as evidenced by his 98 years, and a loving family," Mr Howard said.
Share
