PM Transcripts

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PRIME MINISTER PRESS STATEMENT NO. 211
2 April 1974
TORRES STRAIT MARINE PARK
The Prime Minister, Mr whitlam said tonight that he wrote
to Mr Bielkc Petersen in December 1972 suggesting that Papua New Guinea,
Queensland and Australian officials hold discussions, but
Mr Bjelke Petersen had said he could not see that any good purpose
would be served by such a meeting.
Since then, Ministerial and official discussions have
been held between the Australian and Papua New Guinea Governments.
There have been consultations with the Torres Strait Islanders and
discussions have been arranged between the Torres Strait Is~ landers
and the coastal peoiple of Papua New Guinea.
Arising out of these discussions, proposals have been
put forward for an agreement between the Government which would
protect the environment of the Torres Strait and the way of life
of the Isltinders and the coastal people. Queensland officials have
been kept informed of these proposals. As the issues have not yet
been discussed between the Australian and Papua New Guinea Governments,
it is not possible to conclude whether such an agreement would heacceptable
to the Governments and the peoples concerned. The Australian
Government is hopeful that the concept of an environmentally protected
area can contribute to a satisfactory settlement.
The Prime Minister said that in view of the Premier's
changed attitude hie would again invite the Queensland Government to
take part in official discussions with the Australian and Papua New
Guinea Governments with a view to reaching an agreed settlement.
The Prime Minister-stressed, however, that negotiations
on such a settlement could only be undertaken by the two Governments
concerned that is Papua New Guinea and Australia. Papua New Guinea
is not able to reach a separate agreement with Queensland and this
is understood and accepted by Mr Somare.
CANBERRA. A. C. T.