FED: Howard tells coalition about possible apology

AAP General News (Australia)
08-24-1999
FED: Howard tells coalition about possible apology

CANBERRA, Aug 24 AAP - Prime Minister John Howard has confirmed he will reconsider a formal
apology to the so-called stolen generation of Aborigines, but will not use the word sorry.

Mr Howard told coalition MPs and Senators he would not use the word sorry but could accept
other wording to express regret about the practice.

Newly-elected Australian Democrats Senator Aden Ridgeway, the only Aboriginal member of
parliament, is spearheading a new push for a national apology in a bid to help the cause of
reconciliation.

Mr Howard told the coalition party room he stood by his opposition to the formal apology in
the form suggested by the Human Rights Commission inquiry into the stolen generation who were
forcibly removed from their families.

"He said in his view, an apology of that nature was still inappropriate," a coalition
spokesman said.

"He said the present generation cannot be accountable for the actions of previous
generations of Australians."

Mr Howard said he would consider a form of words expressing regret and looking to a unified
future for Australians.

He said any proposal would be resubmitted to the coalition party room for endorsement.

But Mr Howard ruled out a conscience vote on the issue, and said all coalition MPs and
Senators would be expected to support any government position.

AAP jg/mfh/bwl/br

KEYWORD: SORRY HOWARD

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