VIC: Factions unite to support reform at ALP conference =2

AAP General News (Australia)
12-12-1998
VIC: Factions unite to support reform at ALP conference =2

Mr Dreyfus said he was heartened by the motion, which supported the "scope and intent" of
his report. It was a cause for optimism for the partys future.

But the conference got off to a rocky start when a lone protester waved a placard saying
"Stand down John Brumby" in front of the stage where party officials sat.

When she repeatedly refused requests to move, police were called to escort Genevieve Forde,
of the ALPs Hawthorn branch, from the building.

Mr Jennings told the conference that peace and harmony had prevailed.

He admitted that some aspects of the Dreyfus report were "unpalatable" and that he was
"cynical" about achieving a successful resolution in February.

"But I am prepared to give it a go," he said.

"We cant move on until we make sure that we are capable, demonstrably capable, of
administering ourselves. Lets achieve that by February."

Mr Sword said the success of the reforms depended on whether delegates were "mature enough
to instead of falling about and attacking each other internally, reach agreement about
change".

Opposition leader John Brumby earlier urged a unified fight against Premier Jeff Kennett,
saying it might be only six months until a state election.

"The reality is, to be trusted as a united and democratic government that listens to the
community, we must demonstrate that we are united and democratic party that listens to its
members," he said.

AAP lmw/jmr/cjh

KEYWORD: ALP VIC 2 NIGHTLEAD

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