Aboriginal warning

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 32873, 23 March 1972, Page 13

Aboriginal warning

rN.Z.P.A.-Reuter— Copv-ight; SYDNEY, March 22. An Aboriginal leader gave a warning today that militant Aborigines are experimenting with explosives.

Mr John Newfong, a representative of the self-styled “Aboriginal Embassy,” an encampment on the lawns outside Parliament buildings in Canberra, said that many Aborigines were frustrated in their efforts to obtain a better deal through political channels.

A group of Aborigines have bee,, in camp on the lawns for several weeks in protest against what they say is inadequate representation. Mr Newfong said at a luncheon held by the small Australia Party that there was already talk among young Aborigines of guerrilla action, and that they were experimenting with explosives which would not be aimed at people, but might be used to blow up bridges.

“Because of their feelings of inadequacy, these young radicals are less likely to be restrained by their elders,” Mr Newfong said.

“The Aborigines want substantial compensation for the alienation of their land, plus

a yearly percentage of Australia’s gross national income. This would be cheap recompense for the use of the land for 200 years.” Mr Newfong, who holds administrative posts with several Aboriginal organisations, is a member of an Aboriginal delegation that will travel to China later this year.