United Future leader, Hon Peter Dunne, says Oscar winning actor Russell Crowe has provided the clearest statement yet of New Zealand's defence policy under the present Labour/Alliance government.

Mr Dunne says the concerns of the seven former defence chiefs are understandable and timely and deserve to be taken seriously.

"There must be a proper debate about New Zealand's role in the world and our defence and foreign affairs priorities accordingly."

"The so-called debate to date has been nothing more than an uncritical presentation of the government's views, and has not sought to engage people in a thorough examination of the issue."

"The perception is that the government's mind is already made up, and that it regards any further discussion, let alone contrary views, as basically superfluous and irritating."

"In that environment Russell Crowe provided an apt summary of present defence policy in his Oscar acceptance speech when he said:

'God bless America, God defend New Zealand, and thank Christ for Australia!'"

Ends

© Scoop Media