12 September 2001

United States Tragedy Carries Lessons For New Zealand

“The horrific and tragic events in America today contain at least two lessons that should not be lost on the New Zealand government,” Party Leader Graham Capill said.

“First, this is a salutary lesson to our leaders who told us just a few months ago that New Zealand knows of no threats that might affect our country and that therefore a combat-ready Airforce could not be financially justified. The terrorist war against the United States shows that not even that nation with all its intelligence can predict what some extremists may perpetrate to further their cause. The fact is, no-one can predict such events with certainty.

“I am angry that our leaders are so naïve as to leave New Zealand citizens exposed in this way. The events of the last 24 hours show that all civilized nations must remain alert and ready to deal with any individual or any group that attacks the heart of democracy in this way. The Labour/Alliance Government has sold our security short and both the older parties should be held accountable for running down our Defence Force.

“Secondly, it is a timely reminder as to why countries have immigration laws and strictly police national borders. While the identity of those responsible for today’s events is still unknown, seeing Muslim Arabs cheering and celebrating in the face of such atrocity is a reminder that while we espouse freedom of religion, not all faiths should be embraced with open arms.

“People have been quick to condemn the hard line approach of John Howard’s Government to refugees, but those admitted to a country can have a grave effect on the ethos and make up of society.

“New Zealand has, in my opinion, been too naïve. The current government is exposing New Zealanders to unacceptable risks. The tragic events in America are a sad and salutary reminder of issues that need to be seriously considered for the sake of our national security,” Mr Capill concluded.

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