Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Queen's Title Rejected by Kiwis!
Media release: Queen's Title Rejected by Kiwis!
MEDIA RELEASE: 19 June 2007
A Research New Zealand poll published yesterday shows New Zealanders are opposed to a state religion in New Zealand - and part of the Queen's official title. "The poll results show the monarchy is out of step with New Zealand's secular values" said Lewis Holden, chair of the Republican Movement of Aotearoa New Zealand.
While the Queen is Supreme Governor of the Church of England, Her Majesty's position has no religious relevance to New Zealand. "However, the Queen's title states that Her Majesty, as Queen of New Zealand, is 'Defender of the Faith' in New Zealand law" continued Mr Holden.
"Clearly the monarchy is out of step with New Zealanders' desire to keep religion separate from the state - we should either change the Queen's title, or create a New Zealand head of state with no religious qualifications for office" concluded Mr Holden.
ENDS
Note: The Queen's title, under the Royal Titles Act 1974 is:
"Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God Queen of New Zealand and Her Other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith"
Gordon Campbell: On US Voter Suppression, Plus The Races To Watch
Meat The Need: National Charity Auction To Combat Food Insecurity In New Zealand
Inland Revenue Department: Inland Revenue Stops Using Custom Audience Lists
Horowhenua District Council: Foxton War Memorial Hall Finds A New Life In Community Hands
Council for International Development: CID & Members’ Call For Action Against UNRWA Ban In Israel And Occupied Palestinian Territories
Postal Workers Union: MBIE's Current Mail Service Consultation Is Selective And Misleading, Says The Postal Workers Union
Office of the Speaker: Members To Address Global Issues & Examine Parliamentary Democracy At 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference In NSW
