INDEPENDENT NEWS

PM’s racial comments need investigation

Published: Mon 8 May 2000 05:18 PM
Prime Minister Helen Clarks ill-advised comments on the Waitara shooting last week should be investigated by the Race Relations Conciliator, said ACT justice spokesman Stephen Franks.
“The comments stirred racial tension with what proved to be false allegations. Neither she nor we will know the truth until an objective and considered process gathers the facts.
“For a Prime Minister to indulge in such hasty prejudgement was worrying.
“If Doctor Prasad can bring a calming influence he will serve us all well. This situation should not have been necessary because a Prime Minister’s duty should be to calm, not inflame, racial tension.
“If the Prime Minister feels she must exploit and risk this for political purposes within her own Cabinet the Conciliators office can help limit the damage.
“ACT will be writing to the conciliator to confirm our support for an investigation by him under the Human Rights Act, provided it extends to the involvement of the Prime Minister,” said Stephen Franks.
ENDS

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