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"