Andrew Williams MP
Spokesperson for Veterans’ Affairs
11 March 2014
Flag’s Significance Dawns on Prime Minister
The importance of the World War I anniversary to New Zealanders has finally dawned on the Government, says New Zealand
First spokesperson for Veterans’ Affairs Andrew Williams.
“Prime Minister John Key was clearly not listening to the returned servicemen and women and our military when he
suggested a debate on the flag this year.
“His idea was totally inappropriate and disrespectful heading into the World War I commemorations in 2015.
“By postponing the debate and announcing that a referendum should take place after the centenary of the Gallipoli
landings in 2015 he has reflected on the gravity of his earlier statements.
“Now, under our national emblem that has flown for 112 years, we will remember the sacrifices of Kiwis who served in
World War I and later wars,” says Mr Williams.
ENDS