SA: SA Democrats call for Bartlett's resignation

AAP General News (Australia)
12-10-2003
SA: SA Democrats call for Bartlett's resignation

ADELAIDE, Dec 10 AAP - South Australian members of the Australian Democrats have called
for the immediate resignation of party leader Andrew Bartlett, it was reported today.

Democrats SA parliamentary leader Sandra Kanck and deputy leader Ian Gilfillan have
written to the party's national executive calling for Senator Bartlett to resign or for
an immediate spill of the leadership position, ABC radio reported.

Details of the letter were contained in an email leaked to the ABC, the national broadcaster
said.

In the letter, Ms Kanck and Mr Gilfillan said it was morally and ethically unacceptable
for Senator Bartlett to continue as leader.

Senator Bartlett has taken indefinite leave and was seeking health treatment after
he last week drunkenly manhandled and verbally abused Liberal Senator Jeannie Ferris.

Ms Kanck and Mr Gilfillan's letter also said the party was using intoxication as an
excuse for larceny and assault, ABC reported.

Ms Kanck was not immediately available for comment but would hold a media conference
in Adelaide later today, her spokeswoman said.

AAP sl/cbs

KEYWORD: BARTLETT KANCK

2003 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.