ARM Media Statement - 20 February 2002

Australian Republican Movement declines to comment on GG's difficulties

The Australian Republican Movement has today distanced itself from the particular difficulties surrounding Australia's Governor-General, Dr Peter Hollingworth.

ARM Chair Greg Barns stated that "Australian republicans seek constitutional change based on what is most appropriate for Australia in the 21st century. The performance of individuals is not at issue in our commitment to constitutional reform - republicans want an Australian Head of State because we believe that is the best arrangement for a modern democracy in the 21st century."

Mr Barns reiterated that the ARM had scrupulously avoided involvement in the current controversy as republicans were primarily concerned with institutional reform, rather than the difficulties of particular individuals.

Mr Barns stated that the Australian Republican Movement had noted media comment regarding the stepping aside or removal of the current Governor General.
"This commentary provides yet another example of the inadequacy and anachronistic nature of the constitutional arrangements which exist in Australia today, with only the Prime Minister and the Queen of England empowered to remove a Governor-General."

The ARM recently released a discussion paper, 6 Models for an Australian Republic, which deals in part with the Removal of the President in a future Australian republic. In contrast with present arrangements, five out of six models outlined in the discussion paper allow for the voice of the Australian community to be exercised through their parliamentary representatives.

A Summary of the Models drawn from the ARM's discussion paper may be found on this web site for your information.

Further comment:

Greg Barns, Chair, (02) 9267 8022