Defence, To Cut Or Not To Cut - A Parliamentary select committee report is calling for a smaller but better equipped
defence force with the Army taking priority over the Navy and Airforce. Labour has embraced the recommendations saying
they form the basis of its defence policy if it wins the election. Defence spokesperson Geoff Braybrook says the
Government cannot afford its current plan. He says New Zealand is the size of Italy with a population of Rome. To build
up an army, navy and Airforce to the size Max Bradford wants will cost a fortune, Mr Braybrook says. But Victoria
University staff at centerforce strategic studies disagree, saying cutting back on defence will hurt relations with
Australia and other allies.
Double Homicide in West Auckland - Forensic experts are testing a knife for clues at the scene of a double homicide at
west Auckland near Henderson. Police believe the weapon is connected to the death of a 25 year old man and his 19 year
old flatmate. Police are however reluctant to speculate how the pair died until a post mortem examination is completed
this afternoon. Police are continuing door to door inquiries.
Youth Justice Centre For Manukau - South Auckland residents are assured that they will be able to have their say about a
new Youth Justice facility planned for Roscommon Road in Wiri. The 40 bed facility will house youngsters who have been
arrested, at times, on quite serious charges. A CYPFA spokesperson says the agency has gone to some lengths to find a
suitable site and is sending information packs to everyone in the area. It plans community meetings to discuss what the
agency plans for the site.