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Jeers from The Diary

27 March 1998 - London: Feminist icon Germaine Greer is never far from controversy. Some would say it doesn't so much follow her as actively seeks her out.

Now she has launched an extraordinary attack on John Howard, saying "he thinks Aborigine-bashing will make him popular", and that white Australians could become "the outcasts of the world" if more were not done for Aborigines.

Greer sent the statement yesterday to a signing by prominent Australian expats of the Sorry Book outside Australia House, London. "I must sign the Sorry Book, just as every other Australian who cares must sign, because Aborigines and all other people need to know that (Howard) does not speak for white Australians", she said in the statement.

Greer was not alone in going on the attack. Former Sydney radio personality Jonathon Coleman attacked Australia House and High Commissioner, Neal Blewett, alleging staff were not allowed to sign the book.

Coleman told The Diary's London operative "I'm sad to stand outside Australia House and know that virtually no-one in that building is allowed to sign the Sorry Book….shame, shame, shame Mr Blewett."

A spokesman for the High Commissioner denied non-diplomatic staff were banned from signing it. He said diplomatic staff were "aware of the fact that they are representing the Government and as such it would be inappropriate".

Others who signed the book were actor Mark Little, Rolf Harris and author Kathy Lette.

Source: Sydney Sun-Herald

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