MEDIA RELEASE: 14th NOVEMBER, 2019
NSW PARLIAMENT SUPPORTS QUEEN ELIZABETH BY DECLARING “FUR IS FIRMLY OUT OF FASHION” DESPITE OPPOSITION FROM NSW LIBERAL AND NATIONAL PARTIES
Today the New South Wales Legislative Council supported a Notice of Motion congratulating Queen Elizabeth II for removing cruel animal fur from her wardrobe and declaring that “fur is firmly out of fashion”.
The motion, tabled by the Animal Justice Party, received support from Labor, Christian Democrats, Independent Justin Field and The Greens, however MP Emma Hurst said it was disappointing that the New South Wales Liberal and National Parties, along with One Nation chose not to endorse the decision made by Australia’s head of state.
“Today the NSW Liberal and National Parties and One Nation rejected the opportunity to support the Queen’s ethical decision to condemn the cruel fur trade, and in doing so, continue their own support of an industry with a long history of animal cruelty,” said Ms Hurst.
“The Government’s unwavering support for extreme animal abuse is incredibly disconcerting, and shows they are completely out of touch with community sentiment and now the beliefs of our Head of State,” said Ms Hurst.
One Nation’s Mark Latham’s response to the motion of “who cares”, shocked the House and prompted Ms Hurst to remind the Members that compassion does not need to have limitations.
“Who cares about the millions of animals being held in cages and slaughtered, or who face a slow death trapped in limb crushing steel traps? It is unconscionable to say, ‘who cares’,” said Ms Hurst.
“Over 50 million animals suffer and die as victims of the international fur trade. This includes kangaroos, murdered right here in New South Wales and exported to regions including Europe, Asia and the United States.
“Our laws not only condone the murder of innocent, sentient animals for this barbaric trade, but we continue to support this cruel industry by allowing animal fur including that from bears, seals, possums, rabbits and racoons to be imported and sold within our state.
“Animals in the fur trade are killed by anal electrocution, gassing, breaking their necks, or skinning them alive – these are all inhumane and often ineffective methods designed to avoid damage to their fur.
“Allowing our state to support this barbaric, disgraceful industry is horrific. Despite the Liberal and National Party’s opposition, it is encouraging that the majority of the Upper House recognises this and is willing to take action.
“Everyone, from the Queen to the community here in New South Wales, knows that we don't need to abuse and kill animals in order to look luxurious. It is time the New South Wales Liberal and National Parties, along with One Nation recognise this too,” said Ms Hurst.
MEDIA RELEASE: ROSINA RAYNS, 0401 991 792