As debate about Australia’s involvement in a war against Iraq gathers strength, the leader of the Australian Democrats, Senator Andrew Bartlett, has delivered a speech setting out his party’s opposition to a war.
Bartlett spoke to a public meeting at the Melbourne Town Hall.
Text of speech by Senator Andrew Bartlett, leader of the Australian Democrats.
I acknowledge the traditional owners of the land.
Thank you Don Chipp and Senator Lyn Allison and the many other organisations and individuals who have contributed to holding this meeting.
I believe what we need to be doing tonight is not just looking at the immediate threat of the impending war with Iraq but what it will also mean for our future, as Australians and indeed the global community. [Read more…]
The 31-year-old Senator becomes the youngest person ever to lead a major political grouping in Australia.