News Release

13.2.2013

Richard Prosser: An Inspiration For Terrorists

MP Richard Prosser is an inspiration for terrorists says TESOLANZ chairperson Hilary Smith.

Dr Smith says New Zealand First MP Richard Prosser's statements are not only offensive and racist but also play directly into the hands of terrorists.

"Those who organise these suicide bombings don't really believe they can change Western policy. But they know they can change Western attitudes towards Muslims," she says.

"Their goal is to use the hate speech from people like Mr Prosser to alienate moderate Muslims and force them to take sides with the extremists. They can only be celebrating now, that Mr Prosser is so easy to manipulate."

"We believe the government, the opposition, and New Zealand First need to do everything they can to speak out against Mr Prosser's extreme and unacceptable statements.

"It is not good enough for him to apologise and remain in Parliament. Our country does not need people like this representing us and nothing short of his resignation is likely to send a strong enough message to an international audience, who are surprised to hear we are prepared to entertain such racism," she says.

TESOLANZ represents about 600 teachers of English to speakers of other languages who work in all areas of the education sector from pre-school to tertiary.

ENDS

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