Published by: World Tibet Network News, Wednesday, July 10 1996

Australian Associated Press

ADELAIDE (July 10, 1996) -- The Australian Democrats have described as tasteless a decision by Indonesian authorities to name the country's first national car the Timor.

Democrat Senator Vicki Bourne said considering the problems the Indonesian government had experienced with East Timor and the issue of human rights on the island the move was an act of arrogance and insensitivity.

"Given Indonesia's appalling human rights record in East Timor, this move is on a par with Toyota bringing out a Pearl Harbour model, Peugeot launching a Mururoa model or China naming its new national car the Tibet," she said.

"At a time when Indonesia's international reputation on human rights is at an all-time low this decision is far from helpful.

"Nor is it helpful in improving Indonesia's relations with the people of East Timor."