Fed: Downer downplays Iraq plebiscite

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Fed: Downer downplays Iraq plebiscite

SYDNEY, Feb 17 AAP - Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer has rejected calls fora plebiscite to be held before Australian troops participate in any war against Iraq.

His comments follow a call by Greens Senator Bob Brown for a national referendum onthe matter, as well as massive weekend demonstrations against Australia's involvementin possible military action.

But Mr Downer today said the government was elected by the people of Australia to makedecisions and judgements in its best interests.

"The government will keep in place arrangements that have existed throughout Australianhistory since 1901," he told reporters in Sydney.

"If it comes to military conflict, then questions of Australian participation in thatwill be considered by the Cabinet.

"There will then be, of course, a debate in the parliament.

"This is the procedure that has been followed throughout Australian history.

"We will just be following the normal procedures if it does come to military conflict."

Mr Downer said while he understood everyone wanted a peaceful resolution in Iraq, hesaid a win by Saddam Hussein would be a big setback for peace.

AAP swe/kp/gjr/ts

KEYWORD: IRAQ PLEBISCITE DOWNER