Fed: Defence experts criticise Downer stand on Iraq

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Fed: Defence experts criticise Downer stand on Iraq

CANBERRA, Aug 14 AAP - Defence experts have joined Labor in criticising Foreign MinisterAlexander Downer for his tough language on Iraq.

Opposition Leader Simon Crean yesterday labelled Mr Downer a fool and called on PrimeMinister John Howard to bring him into line after the foreign minister accused the Laborleader of echoing Iraqi president Saddam Hussein in his criticism of the government'sstance towards Iraq.

"Simon Crean is talking like Saddam Hussein," Mr Downer said.

The tough government line does not appear to be mirrored in the general community.

An SBS Television-commissioned Newspoll showed that in a survey of 1,200 Australians,50 per cent were against military action in Iraq, 39 per cent were in favour, with therest uncommitted.

Speaking on ABC Radio, former Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) chiefAlan Renouf questioned the motivation for Mr Downer's strong words on Iraq.

"My assessment is that Downer in particular, leaving Howard to one side, has gone fartoo way out on a limb," he said.

"I just don't understand what his agenda is in making Australia the most vehement andpublic critic of Saddam Hussein."

Australian Defence Association executive director Michael O'Connor told ABC Radio thatgovernment comments on Iraq were too strong.

"At the moment I have to say that I think the government spokesmen generally are usingtoo extravagant language in this whole situation," he said.

AAP so/cjh

KEYWORD: IRAQ AUST SECOND DAYLEAD