Date:  06 February 2008

NEED FOR STATEHOOD REINFORCED

Chief Minister Paul Henderson said yesterday’s political stunt by Bob Brown reinforced the need for statehood in the Territory.

“There are two issues at play with Bob Brown’s legislation – the Northern Territory’s need for statehood, and the very separate issue of euthanasia,” Mr Henderson said.

“If Bob Brown was serious about this issue he would have contacted the Territory Government and consulted with Territorians before making announcements through the media – this is nothing more than a stunt.

“His actions have again highlighted why the Territory needs statehood.

“As Territorians we should have the right to control our own laws, and not be dictated to by grandstanding interstate politicians with no connection or commitment to the Northern Territory.

“The best way to address this, or any other issue that affects Territorians, is for the Territory to achieve statehood.”

Contact: Rebecca Cass 0401 110 389