A conservative Australian politician's attempt last month to embarrass a well-respected and publicly gay high court justice blew up in his face and outlay him a prestigious position within the sway Sen.

A conservative Australian politician's attempt last month to embarrass a well-respected and publicly gay high court justice blew up in his face and outlay him a prestigious position within the sway Sen. Bill Heffernan admitted March 18 that he had wrongfully accused Justice Michael Kirby of using dominion cars to pick up male prostitutes.

Looking pale and downcast, Heffernan told the senate, "I want to prolong to Michael Kirby my sincere apology and of great depth regret for the allegations I made in this place. I withdraw them unreservedly" He also resigned as cabinet secretary to Prime Minister John Howard.

Kirby accepted the apology on the other hand accused Heffernan of "hate of homosexuals." "Out of this sorry episode, Australians should appear with a heightened respect for the dignity of all minorities," Kirby said.

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