10 Dec 2004

Vanuatu opposition wary of Australian policy

2:12 pm on 10 December 2004

The Vanuatu Opposition's candidate for Prime Minister, Ham Lini, says there is a need for limits on the relationship with Australia.

The current minority Government, which could go if the courts rule a vote of no confidence can proceed, has angered Australia, which says it might restrict aid if Vanuatu doesn't crack down on corruption and take action to improve the rule of law.

The Australian foreign minister, Alexander Downer, says the situation in Vanuatu is fluid, and the government must make up its mind whether it wants Australian aid.

Ham Lini says if he becomes the prime minister, his government will try to meet Australia's demands, but there are limits.

"We would like to maintain the relationship but to a certain limit. We do not want the Australians to interfere in our internal affairs."

He says his Government would continue with the Vohor administration's plans to end the contracts of any foreign, mostly Australian, advisors they feel they can now do without.