ARM Media Statement - 11 June 2000

ARM welcomes Bob Carr's Republican support

The ARM today welcomed the contribution of NSW Premier Bob Carr towards the Republican debate. Speaking at the NSW State Conference Premier Carr clearly stated his support for a minimal republican model that simply replaces the Queen as head of state with the Governor-General, maintaining the method of appointment and powers that the GG currently has.

James Terrie, ARM National Director, said that "the proposal of Premier Carr is one of a number of republican possibilities that will need to be discussed and debated by Australians before they vote in a future republican referendum. "

Mr Terrie mentioned that Dr Gallop, Leader of Opposition in WA also recently speculated about republican options for WA. Mr Terrie added that " that there is a diversity of republican views amongst our state political leaders and while the proposal put forward last year was defeated, comments such as Premier Carr's show that the republican issue needs further debate and resolution, all republican political and community leaders have an important role to play in keeping the debate moving."

Mr Terrie said that he has recently written to all republican state party leaders asking for their support in promoting republican options and constitutional change.

Enquiries: James Terrie, National Director, Australian Republican Movement
telephone 0411 240 970