FED: Democrats complicate republic riddle = 2

AAP General News (Australia)
08-10-1999
FED: Democrats complicate republic riddle = 2

The lower house passed Mr Howard's compromise proposal late last night and it was being
considered by the Senate today.

Senator Stott Despoja said the Democrats' question was more simple and accurate and was
aimed at breaking the stalemate on the issue.

"This is a compromise if you like on the prime minister's compromise," she told reporters.

Parliament must agree on the referendum question this week or the November 6 poll will be
postponed.

Asked how far the Democrats were prepared to push their compromise, Senator Stott Despoja
said: "I've already indicated the Democrats don't want to jeopardise the referendum process
nor do we want to jeopardise the passage of these bills."

Mr Howard said he would not accept any amendments to his amended republican question.

"This is going to be a test for the Prime Minister and the House of Representatives,"
Senator Stott Despoja said.

"We're not making any threats or ultimatums, we're putting this on the table now."

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KEYWORD: REPUBLIC DEMOCRATS 2 CANBERRA

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