FED: Celebrities warned to stay out of referendum = 2

AAP General News (Australia)
08-08-1999
FED: Celebrities warned to stay out of referendum = 2

The Australian Republican Movement (ARM) defended the right of celebrities and sportsmen to
have a say in the republic debate.

Responding to Federal Employment Minister Tony Abbott's call for celebrities and sport men
to stay out of the debate, national campaign director for ARM Greg Barns said it was not for
Mr Abbott to say who could have a voice.

He accused Mr Abbott of being his "usual arrogant self".

Member of the Yes Coalition, Richard Fidler said sometimes a celebrity voice was needed to
get media and public attention.

"Mark Taylor is entitled to his opinion, although of course we strongly disagree with it,"
he said.

ARM chairman Malcolm Turnbull attacked Employment and Work Place Relations Minister Peter
Reith's position on the issue: "If you're going to take the Kama Sutra approach to politics
you may as well try every position in the book, leave no contortion untwisted and then at
least you know you've had all the fun there is to have."

AAP/smf/arb

KEYWORD: REPUBLIC N/L 2 CANBERRA (REOPENS)

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