Clark weak on terror

Hon Bill English - National Party Leader

The Prime Minister’s indifference on terrorism was highlighted by her lack of knowledge on a Terrorism Bill passed by her own Government only last week, says National Party Leader Bill English.

“In response to a question by myself in Parliament today, she revealed she didn’t even know that despite the new legislation on terrorism, it is still not illegal to be a member of terrorism organisations such as Al Qaeda in this country.

“It is extraordinary that Helen Clark did not know this. If she cared so much about stopping terrorism she should know what her own Government has done, or not done, to protect New Zealanders.

“The bombing in Bali has brought home that terrorism is not just something that happens in other parts of the world. It happens right here in our backyard.

“The Prime Minister also told the House there would be no change in policy on terrorism, defence or security despite the serious threat to New Zealand citizens.

“The Clark administration have run down our defence, and now they are saying that they don’t mind having members of terrorist organisations in this country.

“That is outrageous. We do not want these people in this country. The Labour Government’s soft line on defence and terrorism is not what the public of New Zealand expects.

“Terrorists are just cold blooded killers who deserve no mercy, no understanding and New Zealanders expect our Prime Minister to take it seriously enough to make membership of a terrorist organisation illegal,” says Mr English.

© Scoop Media