19 September 2001

Government Urged To Reconsider Defence Policy

Party Leader Graham Capill has urged the government to revisit its decision concerning the air force in the face of the United States declaration of war.

Mr Capill said, “Arguments by the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister that we do not need to take defence more seriously because not even the USA, with all its resources, predicted the terrorist attack, simply will not wash.

“Just because an insurance policy does not cover every contingency, does not mean people should not have insurance policies. The government’s ‘laissez-faire’ approach is irresponsible and does not match the political speak about standing against terrorism and wiping it out.

“Christian Heritage believes the government should immediately increase defence spending to 2% of GDP, rescind the decision to sell the Sky Hawks, and treat seriously and urgently the inquiries into the dysfunctional relationship at Defence Headquarters.

“Anything less is irresponsible and will further tarnish New Zealand’s reputation with our allies,” Mr Capill concluded.

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