ARM MEDIA RELEASE - 10 February 2005

Australia's Future King

The Australian Republican Movement (ARM) released the following statement upon the announcement of Prince Charles's forthcoming nuptials.

The ARM's National Chair, Professor John Warhurst, stated: "The announcement out of Clarence House in London this evening turns the focus of the Australian people squarely on Prince Charles who will - unless we become a republic - become Australia's next King, Charles III.

"This announcement is particularly timely, given His Royal Highness's visit to Australia later this month. We hope that he may be accompanied on his Australian tour by Mrs Parker Bowles, so that she may learn more about the country where her future husband will soon become Head of State."

"Prince Charles has not been to Australia in more than a decade", said ARM National Director Allison Henry. "We trust that this visit will give Australians an opportunity to evaluate their future Head of State at close range.

"Both this announcement and the forthcoming royal tour will prompt Australians to consider the fundamental question: 'Who should be our Head of State: a member of the British royal family or a fellow Australian?'" said Ms Henry.