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Officials Snub 'Sorry' Book

By Mick Jovetic

30 March 1998 - London: The Australian High Commissioner refused to sign the Sorry Book and "snubbed" its London launch last Thursday.

Launch organisers say it was disappointing the High Commissioner Dr Neal Blewett, didn't try to "repair some of the damage to Australia's international reputation" inflicted by "the way the Government is treating Aboriginal people".

Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR) said Dr Blewett has snubbed their concerted attempt at reconciliation between black and white Australia. A statement from Australia House indicated Dr Blewett's decision not to sign was made in Canberra.

The Prime Minister John Howard had expressed his "personal feelings of deep sorrow" about the injustices of the past but did not believe a formal national apology was appropriate, the statement read.
"As any High Commissioner is the representative of the Government in another country their role is to represent the Government's views" it read.

The Sorry Book was launched outside Australia House by Mark Little, radio DJ Jonathan Coleman, author Kathy Lette and gay rights activist Peter Tatchell.

Opening the launch Mr Little said the Sorry Book was a genuine attempt to start the process of reconciliation. "It's not a bandwagon, publicity stunt, a solution or a book of condolence," he said. "It's to apologise to the indigenous Australians - the original Australians - for past wrongs in lieu of an apology from the most dispassionate, uncaring Australian Government."

Jonothan Coleman said the Australian Government and Dr Blewett should be ashamed.
"It's quite sad to stand outside Australia House and know no-one inside is allowed to sign. Shame, shame, shame Australia," Mr Coleman said.

Germaine Greer who did not attend but signed the Sorry Book, said Prime Minister John Howard did not represent the views of white Australians. "He thinks that Aborigine-bashing will make him popular - we have to prove that he could not be more wrong," Ms Greer said.
"The little we've done to redress this great wrong must be built on quickly if white Australians are not to become the outcasts of the world."

The Sorry Book is now available for signing at TNT's offices, 14-15 Child's Place, Earls Court until April 10.

This article appeared in the TNT magazine (UK).

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