Ex-Foreign Minister Files Lawsuit Against New Zealand Official for Alleged ‘China Puppet’ Remark
Bob Carr says he will sue Winston Peters over remarks he made on radio in a dispute over AUKUS.
Former NSW Premier and Australian Foreign Minister, Bob Carr, plans to take legal action against New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters for comments made on radio earlier today.
During an interview about New Zealand potentially joining the AUKUS pact’s second pillar, Mr. Peters referred to Mr. Carr as a “Chinese puppet” in response to Mr. Carr’s vocal opposition to the agreement.
Mr. Carr had previously participated in an anti-AUKUS forum in Wellington alongside former NZ Prime Minister Helen Clark in a visit last month.
Mr. Peters’ comments, which suggested a close relationship between Mr. Carr and Beijing, were deemed defamatory by Mr. Carr, prompting him to consider legal action.
In response, Mr. Peters’ office stated that he would address the issue if officially notified of any legal action taken by Mr. Carr.
Despite criticism from senior Labour Party figures like Ms. Clark and Chris Hipkins, who called for Mr. Peters to be stood down, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon defended Mr. Peters, citing the nature of political discourse and stating Mr. Carr’s experience in politics should prepare him for such exchanges.
While Mr. Peters’ remarks may resonate with his base, they do not seem to be well-received by the general public, as indicated by recent polling data showing a decline in support for his party.
