FED: Preamble agreement possible

AAP General News (Australia)
08-11-1999
FED: Preamble agreement possible

The Australian Democrats and Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD may reach an agreement today on the
proposed new preamble to the constitution to be considered at the November republic
referendum.

Democrats leader MEG LEES met twice yesterday with Mr HOWARD and will brief colleagues on
those discussions at a party room meeting this morning.

Senator LEES says the Democrats have won some concessions and she's hopeful of a
resolution.

But she says time's running out.

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

On ABC's 7.30 Report yesterday, Senator LEES indicated a concession may be made on the
Democrats' previous warning for Aboriginal custodianship to be included in Mr HOWARD'S
preamble.

Debate will continue today in the Senate on the legislation for the republican referendum.

The Democrats complicated the issue by yesterday putting forward their own question which
is likely to be considered by the Senate today.

AAP RTV sc/am/lm

KEYWORD: REPUBLIC (CANBERRA)

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